§ Mrs. EwingTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence which regiments will be available to participate in the ceremonies for the opening of the Scottish Parliament; and what plans he has to ensure prominence is given to Scottish regiments and bands based in Scotland in the procession and ceremonies. [63304]
§ Mr. George RobertsonInitial planning has only recently begun for the ceremonies to mark the opening of the Scottish Parliament and it is not yet possible to confirm which regiments will participate. However, the 1st Battalion The Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders and the 1st Battalion The Black Watch will be assigned to public duties in Scotland during the summer of 1999 and it is likely that the soldiers who take part in the opening260W ceremony will be drawn from these regiments. It is anticipated that music for the occasion will be provided by Scottish military bands.