§ Mr. Tony BanksTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what was the final cost of major equipment lost and munitions consumed in the Gulf war and in associated training. [8765]
§ Mr. SoamesThe cost of major equipment lost and of munitions and minor items consumed in the Gulf conflict which were not replaced was 00A3;245 million. These costs are included in the current estimate of additional military costs of the Gulf conflict to the United Kingdom.
§ Mr. BanksTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what is his latest estimate of the total costs arising from British involvement in the Gulf war. [8766]
§ Mr. SoamesThe current estimate of the additional military cost of the Gulf conflict is £2.494 billion, spread over several years. The Export Credits Guarantee Department estimates that total claims arising from the Gulf conflict, including those outstanding, amount to £637 million. Other Departments incurred minor costs in respect of the conflict.
The bulk of these costs have been offset by the generous cash contributions from other Governments totalling 00A3;2.049 billion.