§ Mr. Wrayasked the Secretary of State for Defence what was the cost to public funds of the use of the Royal Marines and Commandos in the British Petroleum share launch.
§ Mr. Tony Banksasked the Secretary of State for Defence who authorised the use of Royal Marines to help launch the BP offer price announcement on 15 October; how much was paid for their services; and who paid.
§ Mr. FreemanThe use of the Royal Marines on this occasion was authorised by the Directorate of Naval Recruiting in accordance with standard procedures. The precise costs to be recovered from BP are still being assessed.