§ Bob RussellTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what plans the Government have to(a) commemorate in this country and (b) support in France the 60th anniversary of the D-Day landings. [118875]
§ Dr. MoonieThe Ministry of Defence is working closely with the French Comite du Debarquement, in association with the Normandy Veterans Association to develop a full programme of commemorations in France. Already there are preliminary plans for events on the beaches and in Caen, Bayeux, Arromanches and Colleville Montgomery from 5 to 7 June 2004. A number of options for United Kingdom involvement at these events are being considered where it is intended that there will be suitable representation at Minister and Senior Officer level.
We will also be providing assistance, including suitable representation at Minister and Senior Officer level to a service of remembrance and thanksgiving at St. Paul's Cathedral in London on 20 October 2004, being organised by the Normandy Veterans Association.