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Defence in the media

https://modmedia.blog.gov.uk/2015/12/18/defence-in-the-media-18-december-2015/

Defence in the media: 18 December 2015

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Today’s top story is the EU summit with reports that ‘significant progress’ has been made in Brussels as David Cameron discussed British demands for reform with other leaders. A roundup of today’s defence news is below.

LIBYA

There are various news stories saying Libya’s warring factions signed a long-awaited deal yesterday that could pave the way for British troops and special forces to be deployed there to help tackle Islamic State terrorists.

Our position is below.

The UK, along with international partners, is supporting the process to form a recognised Libyan government and we are developing plans to support once this is done. No decisions have been made about the future deployment of any British military forces to Libya as part of an international coalition force.

BLOODY SUNDAY

A number of papers, including The Telegraph, report that former paratroopers who face questioning over Bloody Sunday have won their High Court battle against being detained and transferred to Northern Ireland for interview by police, because there were no “reasonable grounds” and it would risk their safety.

A MOD spokesperson said:

We note the result of the Judicial Review application. It would be inappropriate to comment further on an ongoing criminal investigation at this stage.

RUSSIA

The Sun reports that Vice Chief of Defence Staff Sir Stuart Peach met with his Russian counterpart in an effort to stop Russian incursions of British airspace and waters.

A MOD Spokesperson said:

VCDS is visiting Russia to follow up the discussions by MOD Director General Security last week that sought to establish military communication channels to reduce the risk of incidents occurring in the air or at sea. It is also an opportunity to register our position on other matters of interest to the UK such as the situation in Syria and Ukraine.

RAF COMPENSATION

The Daily Mail reports that the RAF has admitted paying £375,000 in compensation last year after low-flying aircraft damaged property or scared animals to death.

A MOD spokesman said:

The MOD takes the issue of safe low-flying extremely seriously and understands that military low flying can be noisy, but every measure is taken to minimise the effect on people and animals whilst maintaining the essential operational skills needed by our aircrew.

SLEEPWALKING

The Daily Mirror reports on the medical discharge of five sailors last year after it was discovered that they were sleepwalkers. It is reported that officers feared the sailors could harm themselves by venturing out on to deck in darkness and falling overboard.

A Royal Navy spokesperson said:

Sleepwalking is a bar to entry to the Royal Navy. Whilst this is not presently enshrined in MOD policy, sleepwalking beyond the age of 13 is seen as a permanent medical disqualification. Policy updates to that effect are currently in the process of being cleared for publication.

IMAGE OF THE DAY

Photo Caption:- 'On the road to Christmas!' Soldiers and Officers of 2 SCOTS based in Penicuik move a Christmas tree for the festive party. Soldiers from The Royal Highland Fusiliers, 2nd Battalion The Royal Regiment of Scotland (2 SCOTS) will return from Operations in Kabul this week following a four month deployment in support of NATO’s mission in Afghanistan. The troops deployed to Afghanistan in July 2015 to enhance Kabul’s Security Forces and assist in providing security to UK and NATO personnel in the city. Lieutenant Colonel Graeme Wearmouth, Commanding Officer of 2 SCOTS said: “As the soldiers of A and B Company 2 SCOTS return to Glencorse Barracks in Penicuik they can reflect on an excellent tour of duty in Kabul. They have upheld the highest standards of Scottish soldiers and enhanced the reputation of The Royal Regiment of Scotland amongst our NATO allies and Afghan partners. “On every day during the deployment they have protected NATO advisors throughout Kabul. We have been tested, including by hostile action from insurgents. The Jocks have come through strongly – with professionalism and good humour in equal measure. It has been hugely rewarding to see so many young soldiers develop, mature and grow as professionals. “It is very rewarding to see their satisfaction in delivering security in a challenging operating environment. As we in the rest of the Battalion continue the mission in Kabul with two new Companies, themselves fresh and eager to contribute to the NATO mission in Afghanistan at this important time, I would like to wish those returning home a well-deserved happy Christmas with their families and a restful New Year after a job well done. We all look forward to the Battalion’s eventual reunion in Scotland later in 2016.” The mission - which is split into two tours of four months - is part of the UK’s enduring commitment to Afghanistan and to provide the country with the best training to allow the Governme
Soldiers and Officers of 2 SCOTS based in Penicuik move a Christmas tree for the festive party.

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