Written question asked by Malcolm Savidge (Labour) on Monday, 25 October 1999, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 8 November 1999. It was answered by Geoffrey Hoon (Labour) on Monday, 8 November 1999 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Ministry of Defence

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, If he will make a statement on the current security situation in East Timor. (Failed OPQ). - Inc figures.

Answer: Mr. Savidge: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on the current security situation in East Timor. [96150] Mr. Hoon: The security situation in East Timor is much improved. The Australian-led International Force in East Timor (INTERFET) has now reached a total strength of 8,100 personnel, and includes significant contributions from Canada, Fiji, South Korea, New Zealand, Philippines, Thailand, UK and the US. INTERFET has a firm base in Dili and is operating patrols along the border with West Timor. Remaining militia on the eastern side of the island, together with those based in West Timor, are still a cause for concern. The Indonesian Armed Forces have been co-operative. Some refugees have returned as peace is being restored. British Army Gurkhas have played an important role from the start of INTERFET operations in East Timor, and most recently in the Ambeno enclave. Gurkhas have been involved in conducting security patrols, facilitating the delivery of humanitarian assistance and providing medical relief.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 337 c399-400W; 96150
Session: 1998-99
Question not reached: Yes
Subjects: Armed forces Deployment Humanitarian aid Peacekeeping operations Security Refugees Indonesia East Timor International Force in East Timor Royal Gurkha Rifles
Contains statistics: Yes