§ Sir Teddy TaylorTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what guidelines apply to the loaning or the hiring of military personnel or equipment to the private sector; and if he will make a statement. [9203]
§ Dr. ReidThe use of military personnel or equipment in aid of the private sector is not, as a general rule, encouraged as Defence funds are not granted for such a purpose. Where the Ministry of Defence makes goods or services available to commercial organisations, they are normally charged for at a rate which covers the full costs. This reflects Government Accounting principles. One example of assistance which might be provided is the354W provision of military resources in a civil emergency to help return a community to normality, which might include the restoration of commercial viability.
My Department also recognises that there may be value and benefits to the country from military participation in commercial projects from time to time. Any request would be considered on its merits and would not be accepted at the expense of a unit's operational or training duties.