Following the Government statement about the decision to leave the UN’s MINUSMA peacekeeping mission in Mali earlier than planned, James Sunderland expresses his disappointment and seeks confirmation that force protection will be maintained in full accordance with the threat as we withdraw.
James Sunderland (Bracknell) (Con)
I thank the Minister for his statement. Our withdrawal is disappointing, as I suspect it will exacerbate the very reasons for our deployment in the first place, but I clearly accept the political judgment. Will he confirm to the House that the UK force protection profile will be maintained in full accordance with the threat as we withdraw?
The Minister for Armed Forces (James Heappey)
It absolutely will. The long-range reconnaissance patrolling will stop almost immediately and, on the next rotation, the force that follows on to deliver the draw-down will have everything needed within it for full force protection.