§ 12. Mr. TredinnickTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence when he next expects to visit Bosnia to inspect British troops; and if he will make a statement. [16849]
§ Mr. PortilloI regularly visit British troops in the former Yugoslavia and was last there in December. I hope to make another visit in the spring.
§ Mr. JoplingTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what assessment he has made of the logistic plan to establish and support the implementation force with particular reference to the prices which IFOR is paying for essential services. [18616]
§ Mr. SoamesIt is not possible to assess separately the costs of the logistic support to IFOR. Logistics costs are, however, included in the total estimated cost which is currently in the region of £300 million.
The prices which are being paid for essential services used by the UK forces contributing to IFOR are consistent with market prices. Wherever possible, we seek savings through competition, buying in bulk and exemption from taxes under the status of forces agreement.