§ 28. Mr. Bill O'BrienTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence when he last met the Chamber of Shipping to discuss co-operation between his Department and the chamber on defence issues; and if he will make a statement. [45249]
§ Mr. SpellarThe Secretary of State for Defence has not yet met the Chamber of Shipping. However, the Ministry of Defence enjoys a close and productive relationship with the Chamber on defence issues, primarily through the auspices of the Shipping Defence Advisory Committee and its various working groups and sponsored discussions. The MOD looks forward to a continuing dialogue with the Chamber which will, I am sure, provide further opportunity to develop a better appreciation of our respective interests and concerns.