§ Harry CohenTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what the policy of the Government is with regard to the invitation by the Edinburgh Military Tattoo to the band of the Chinese 1329W People's Liberation Army to play at this year's event; what discussions the Government has had on this invitation; and if he will make a statement. [179336]
§ Mr. RammellThe Edinburgh Military Tattoo is a private concern. The Tattoo organising board consulted the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and the Ministry of Defence. The decision to invite musicians from the People's Liberation Army to participate in the Tattoo is a matter for the Tattoo organising board.