Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how many times enhanced blast variants of the AGM-114N Hellfire missile have been used by UK armed forces since June 2009.

It is policy that we do not release details of Hellfire missile employment by sub-variant as to do so could provide details of our capabilities and tactics. Consequently, I am withholding the information as its disclosure would, or would be likely to prejudice the capability, effectiveness or security of the Armed Forces.

The UK does everything it can to mitigate the risk to civilian life from UK strikes through our rigorous targeting processes and the professionalism of the RAF crews. All missions are meticulously planned, and every care is taken to ensure we minimise civilian casualties.