Raf Logistic Record

EDM number 238 in 2003-04, proposed by Frank Cook on 09/12/2003.

That this House notes with considerable pride the RAF personnel manning the Tristars and VC10s that make up the UK inflight refuelling capability; recognises the very high level of navigational precision and tightly controlled schedules of attendance on the towline required to make their highly volatile cargo available to their many smaller sucklings; acknowledges that as these airborne tankers have the means to detect illumination lock-on by unfriendly radar but are without defence suites which might facilitate the adoption of evasive measures in the event of incoming attack, the aircrews can be forgiven for considering themselves on occasion to be little more than easy targets; in the light of this, admires hugely the cold courage displayed regularly and routinely in servicing as required not only the aircraft of their RAF colleagues but also those of their US and French carrier borne allies who have difficulty replenishing from US inflight refuellers; registers equal admiration for the C17 heavy transport teams that display courage and determination in the same unstinting measure; applauds the instances when the adoption of extraordinary measures have merited the award of the Queen's commendation to individuals for outstanding conduct during Operation VERITAS and Operation TELIC; expresses dismay that the Defence Council instruction referring to the award of Operational Service Medals in regard to these campaigns should be couched so far in terms that exclude these valiant logistic teams; and consequently calls on Her Majesty's Government to issue instructions to redress this regrettable situation at the earliest date.

This motion has been signed by a total of 5 MPs.