To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many Royal Navy and marine patrol boats are operating in Iraqi waters. (130866)

As at 28 March 2007 there was one Royal Navy vessel and no UK marine patrol boats operating in Iraqi waters.

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what helicopter support is available to support British Marines operating in Iraqi waters as part of operations conducted in pursuance of UN Security Council Resolution 1723. (130868)

It is not possible to provide the number of helicopters available to support British Marines operating in Iraqi waters as to do so would, or would be likely to, prejudice the capability, effectiveness and security of our armed forces. There are sufficient numbers of helicopters in theatre, all of which may be deployed in their specific role in support of marine operations if necessary. British forces are also able to call on the support of coalition assets as part of Multi- National Force Iraq if required.

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence which other NATO countries are contributing to the patrolling of Iraqi waters in addition to British forces; and who has overall command. (130869)

The patrolling of Iraqi territorial waters is not a NATO task. Under UNSCR 1723, the United States, as lead nation of the Multi-National Force—Iraq, has responsibility for the patrolling of Iraqi territorial waters. The UK, the only other member of NATO, and Australia provide support to this task.