Thursday 25 March 2010

Defence Minister visits Colchester

Armed Forces Minister Bill Rammell MP was in Colchester today to visit the town's army garrison and take part in a debate on Afghanistan at the University of Essex.

Welcomed by Labour's Parliamentary Candidate Jordan Newell, Mr Rammell used his visit to the university to address an audience of academics, students and members of the public about the role of the armed forces in the ongoing conflict in Afghanistan.

Officers from 3 PARA at Colchester Garrison also took part in the event, which saw the Armed Forces Minister take questions on a range of issues associated with the conflict.

Speaking ahead of the visit, Jordan said:

"Colchester is a proud garrison town and I am pleased that Bill Rammell is visiting us today. The troops that are based here have already shown tremendous professionalism and dedication in Afghanistan and I know they are ready to do so again, as they prepare for their third tour of duty in Helmand."

The Minister had spent the morning at Colchester Garrison, where he visited troops who will join some 9,500 British service personnel when they return to the country for their third tour of duty later this year.

Speaking at the University, Bill Rammell said:

“I am delighted to be in Colchester with Jordan Newell.  He has built up a fine reputation for his unstinting support for our military and it is a pleasure to have the opportunity to reinforce that message.”