§ Mr. Weetchasked the Secretary of State for Defence what was the total cost incurred on the race down the Thames of the 1st, 2nd and 3rd battalions of the Parachute Regiment to deliver grouse to the Savoy hotel on 12 August; and whether he will make a statement.
§ Mr. FreemanThe Red Devils parachute display team, which is drawn from the three battalions of the Parachute Regiment, met the expenses concerned and there was no expenditure from Defence Votes. Its efforts raised £11,000 in sponsorship for the Soldiers', Sailors' and Airmen's Families Association and £11,000 for the Red Devils appeal fund towards the cost of its replacement aircraft.
§ Mr. Weetchasked the Secretary of State for Defence what was the total cost of the flight from Blackpool airport to the Royal hospital, Chelsea, by the Red Devils on 12 August, including the parachute drop of grouse.
§ Mr. FreemanThe Red Devils parachute display team used its own aircraft, which is financed from its own funds. There was no expenditure from Defence Votes.