To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many (a) helicopters available with winching equipment, (b) Pinzgauer vehicles and (c) mine resistant Mastiff trucks were available and being used by the British forces in Southern Afghanistan in January 2008. (183404)

Regarding the availability of helicopters fitted with winching equipment, I have nothing to add to the answer I gave to the hon. Member for Congleton (Ann Winterton) on 24 January 2008, Official Report, column 2136W.

Regarding the number of Pinzgauer and Mastiff vehicles available to British forces in Southern Afghanistan, I am withholding the information as its disclosure would, or would be likely to prejudice the capability, effectiveness or security of the armed forces.