§ Mr. CousinsTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence when the United Kingdom signed a memorandum of understanding on defence procurement with Kuwait; when the programme office was set up; what orders have so far been placed; and how much income his Department has received in brokerage fees from United Kingdom firms.
§ Mr. AitkenThe United Kingdom signed a memorandum of understanding on defence equipment and related services with Kuwait on 2 December 1992. The Kuwait programme office was set up on 4 January 1993. There have been no contracts placed so far and my Department will not receive brokerage fees from United Kingdom firms. Where, however, my Department undertakes a major management rôle on behalf of a customer—in this case the Kuwait Government—a fee is charged to cover departmental expenses commensurate with the work involved.