§ Mr. Dalyellasked the Secretary of State for Defence what is the purpose and cost of the joint service expedition to Brabant Island in the Palmer Archipelago; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. StanleyThe expedition combines adventurous training and exploration of Brabant Island with the collection of scientific data for the British Antarctic Survey. The expedition has been funded from non-public adventure training trust funds, the individuals concerned and sponsorship. There is no cost to public funds.
§ Mr. Dalyellasked the Secretary of State for Defence what was the cost of transporting the Brabant Island expedition to the Antarctic via the Falkland Islands.
§ Mr. StanleyThere was no cost involved in transporting the expedition to Brabant Island. The expedition occupied spare capacity available on a Royal Air Force aircraft, Royal Fleet Auxiliary vessels and HMS Endurance.