Written question asked by Paul Burstow (Liberal Democrat) on Monday, 10 March 2003, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 1 April 2003. It was answered by Lord Moonie (Labour) on Tuesday, 1 April 2003 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Ministry of Defence

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what arrangements he plans to make to provide post traumatic stress disorder counselling to members of the armed forces following any possible action in Iraq.

Answer: Mr. Burstow: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what arrangements he plans to make to provide post traumatic stress disorder counselling to members of the armed forces following any possible action in Iraq. [102643] Dr. Moonie: Service personnel deploying to the Gulf region are given briefings on health issues, including stress-related disorders, and mental health staff are available to personnel in theatre. Briefings will be given to personnel prior to leaving theatre. These will cover post traumatic stress reactions and the problems that may be encountered on returning home to families. Personnel identified by commanders or medical staff as being at special risk would be referred to mental health staff.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 102643; 402 c652W
Session: 2002-03
Subjects: Armed forces Armed conflict Health Iraq Iraq conflict Post-traumatic stress disorder
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk