§ Lord Hyltonasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether they are taking part in, or sponsoring in any way, British participation in the forthcoming defence fair (IDEX) to be held in Abu Dhabi; and, if so, what will be the cost to the taxpayer. [HL1924]
§ Lord BachEvents such as IDEX 2003 provide an effective facility for the United Kingdom defence industry to demonstrate the range of its products to potential overseas customers. They also enable companies responsible for equipping our Armed Forces to see the capabilities and products of other nation's defence industries.
The Defence Export Services Organisation (DESO) has primary responsibility for co-ordinating government support for the promotion of legitimate defence exports. DESO plans to take an active part in the exhibition, providing a stand, office and demonstration team at an estimated cost of about £280,000. Travel and associated costs will be met from existing budgets. The cost of DESO support for defence exhibitions is more than offset by savings to the defence budget generated by defence exports, including savings in equipping our own Armed Forces through economies of scale.
Trade Partners UK will provide an element of funding via its support for exhibitions and seminars abroad scheme.