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[Debs.]

I see that the army have been asked to provide some practical support/manpower/equipment for some of the worst snow/ice hit areas of Scotland.

I remember reading (many years ago) that in order for our military to function in a civil defence role (even a temporary one) in Britain, it would require an act of parliament.....is that true?

It seems incongruous when our forces can function as civil engineers, bridge builders, electrical-linesmen and water treatment engineers in far-flung countries following wars; yet we can`t ask them to fulfill such roles here at home at times of great need. :-/

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-11953570

[Elite Pete]

IIRC the army were used last year to build a temp bridge in the Lake District after the flooding.

[Jim]

I'm glad I'm not in the UK just now, I don't fancy shovelling snow

[Dishevelled Den]

Enacted legislation already exists in this regard and, depending on the nature of the assistance required, Military Assistance to the civil Authorities (MACA) can be invoked to assist the civil power in times of emergency. 

[Gaffers]

Zulu you are as always very well informed of the situation.  MACA was invoked around here as recent as last week

[Dishevelled Den]

Zulu you are as always very well informed of the situation.  MACA was invoked around here as recent as last week

Yes G, I think one of the greatest and most rewarding things any branch of the Military can do is to employ their expertise in aid our people when the need arises.

[Debs.]

Zulu you are as always very well informed of the situation.  MACA was invoked around here as recent as last week

Yes G, I think one of the greatest and most rewarding things any branch of the Military can do is to employ their expertise in aid our people when the need arises.

 ...... ....... ......

[Gaffers]

Zulu you are as always very well informed of the situation.  MACA was invoked around here as recent as last week

Yes G, I think one of the greatest and most rewarding things any branch of the Military can do is to employ their expertise in aid our people when the need arises.

 ...... ....... ......

So do I, but often our hands are tied.  Last week as the snow was falling I was being driven to a meeting in a landrover.  I asked the driver if he had tow ropes etc in case we came across drivers who were stuck and I was told:

"We're not insured to tow civilian vehicles"

So here I was in a vehicle that would undoubtedly be able to provide assistance if it was needed and faced with breaking the law if I did so..... crazy.  Thankfully intervention wasn't necessary but I stil shake my head sometimes