§ Mr. RedmondTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence, pursuant to his answer of 3 November,Official Report, columns 105–6, what has been the cost to the exchequer of the chief executive of the Meteorological Office's visits to (a) Geneva, (b) China, (c) France and (d) Norway during the last 12 months.
§ Mr. AitkenThis is a matter delegated to the Meteorological Office under its framework document. I have therefore asked the chief executive to reply direct to the hon. Member.
241WLetter from J. C. R. Hunt to Mr. Martin Redmond, dated 1 December 1992:
The costs to the exchequer were approximately (a) £2,300 (total for 3 visits), (b) £2,500, (c) £2,100 (total for 4 visits) and (d) £900. Reports are available on the visits if required.You will be aware that international collaboration in meteorology is of crucial importance. As a leading climate and numerical weather prediction centre, with a large supporting research programme, and as one of two World Area Forecast Centres for civil aviation, the Met. Office plays a major role in these international activities which are co-ordinated through the World Meteorological Organisation, an agency of the United Nations. Furthermore, by sharing experience and collaborating with other scientific and commercial organisations and national meteorological services, the Met. Office is able to improve its efficiency and cost effectiveness.A copy of the Met. Office's 1991–92 Annual Review is enclosed for your interest. Please do not hesitate to ask if you require further information.