§ 15. Mr. Lindsay Hoyle (Chorley) (Lab)What role the armed forces will play in the 300th anniversary celebrations in Gibraltar. [173163]
§ The Secretary of State for Defence (Mr. Geoffrey Hoon)As I was able to set out on my recent visit to Gibraltar, the armed forces are playing a full part in commemorating Gibraltar's tercentenary this year. Bands of the Royal Marines, the Royal Engineers and the Royal Air Force, the Royal Gibraltar Regiment and other military units from the United Kingdom, Royal
674 Navy ships and the Royal Fleet Auxiliary are taking part in a total of more than 20 events throughout the year.
§ Mr. HoyleWill my right hon. Friend restate his commitment to Gibraltar and ensure that it remains an overseas territory?
§ Mr. HoonMy hon. Friend campaigns tirelessly on behalf of the people of Gibraltar and I commend him for his efforts. I am delighted, not least in this tercentenary year, to commit myself and the Ministry of Defence, on behalf of the Government, to continuing good relations with the people of Gibraltar.