Mr. Ron Brownasked the Prime Minister whether the Government have undertaken any commitment to pay for 186W the services provided by foreign Governments and agencies to rescue Mr. Mark Thatcher; and, if so, what is the total cost.
§ The Prime MinisterNo. Primary responsibility for search and rescue operations for life-saving traditionally rests with the country concerned. Algerian, French and Malian offers to help were spontaneously and generously made and gratefully accepted. her Majesty's Government have not been asked to pay any costs.
Mr. Ron Brownasked the Prime Minister what was the cost to public funds, including the time of civil servants and diplomatic staff, in connection with the search and rescue mission for Mr. Mark Thatcher.
§ The Prime MinisterThe search and rescue operation was mounted largely by the Algerian Government, and other help was provided by the authorities of France and Mali. The costs to Her Majesty's Government are still being assessed but, in view of the limited British role, they are not likely to be large. Costs which are not a proper charge on official funds will not be so charged.