§ Lord Jenkins of Putneyasked Her Majesty's Government:
What is the current weekly cost of this country's military presence in the Gulf and what would be the estimated cost if military conflict ensued.
§ The Earl of ArranThe current full operating cost of our forces in the Gulf, including the latest enhancements announced by the Secretary of State last week, is estimated to be £24 million per week. Costs, if military conflict occurs, are not estimable.