§ Mr. CohenTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what contribution(a) financially, and (b) in terms of UK armed forces personnel his Department will be making to the 1999 Defence Systems and Equipment International Exhibition. [48497]
§ Mr. SpellarMy Department will support the new Defence Systems and Equipment International exhibition both financially and through the participation of UK Service personnel. The extent of our involvement in both areas is still under discussion with the exhibition organisers and the Defence Trade Associations. However, on the financial side, it is intended that our contribution will be limited to aspects of the exhibition which are directly related to MOD interests. These will include the costs of a Ministry of Defence presence and the funding of a reception for official visitors invited by Her Majesty's Government. In terms of Service personnel, a number of officers will be employed to assist, principally in managing the Government to Government invited delegations. We also hope that the Army will be able to provide equipment and personnel to take part in a mobility demonstration.