Oral question asked in the House of Lords, by Baroness Harris of Richmond (Liberal Democrat). It was answered on Tuesday, 13 March 2012.

RAF: Fukushima Accident

Question: My Lords, the RAF Regiment is the acknowledged military expert force for CBRN capability. Will my noble friend assure me that there are no plans to reduce its numbers either now, when its work for this country is absolutely critical, or in the foreseeable future?

Answer: My Lords, my noble friend makes a very good point. I also pay tribute to her for her very strong support for the RAF Regiment over many years. We have announced changes to the number of RAF Regiment field squadrons from 2015 onwards, at the end of operations in Afghanistan, and wider reductions in the overall size of the Royal Air Force that enable a rebalancing of its structure. Two force protection wing headquarters and two field squadrons will draw down over the coming years. However, even with this drawdown, we will continue to have a robust and effective force able to support all future operational requirements, including CBRN protection.

Secondary information

Type: Oral question
Reference: 736 c199-200
Session: 2010-12
Oral question type: Supplementary
Chamber / Committee: House of Lords chamber
Subjects: Accidents Japan Nuclear power stations Earthquakes Military aid RAF Regiment Tsunami
Link: View this Oral question on www.publications.parliament.uk