Written question asked by Lorna Fitzsimons (Labour) on Tuesday, 13 March 2001, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 14 March 2001. It was answered by Lord Spellar (Labour) on Wednesday, 14 March 2001 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 future UK force levels in the Balkans. - Inc figures.

Answer: Mrs. Fitzsimons: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on future UK force levels in the Balkans. [154042] Mr. Spellar: Following a review by NATO of the Statement of Requirement for aircraft in the Balkans theatre we have agreed new burden-sharing arrangements with the US Air Force. This agreement means that for three months in 12, we will meet the requirement for four strike aircraft, and the US for the remainder of the year. We have now completed our first three-month commitment, allowing us to withdraw four RAF Harriers and some 150 support personnel from Gioia del Colle from 1 April. The RAF will next deploy four aircraft again in early 2002.

Secondary information