§ Lord Smith of Cliftonasked Her Majesty's Government:
What contribution Guernsey makes, financial or otherwise, to the United Kingdom's defence; and how this contribution is calculated. [HL3243]
§ The Secretary of State for Constitutional Affairs and Lord Chancellor (Lord Falconer of Thoroton):Since 1 April 1987, Guernsey has made a voluntary annual contribution towards the costs of defence and international representation undertaken by the United Kingdom. The contribution has two elements. The insular authorities have assumed responsibility for the maintenance of the Alderney breakwater (which was completed in 1865 to shelter the British fleet). Prior to April 1987 the cost of maintaining the breakwater was met by Her Majesty's Government. At 2003 prices the average annual cost since 1987 associated with the breakwater is £780,000. Guernsey also remits to the UK the fees collected for the issue of British passports. These amounted to £216,201 in 2003.
§ Lord Smith of Cliftonasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether the United Kingdom has any defence role with regard to Braye Harbour in Braye Bay behind the Alderney breakwater. [HL3244]
§ Lord Falconer of Thoroton:The United Kingdom is responsible for the defence of all of the Channel Islands, the Bailiwick of Guernsey, which includes Alderney, and the Bailiwick of Jersey. There is no specific defence role with regard to Braye Harbour.
§ Lord Smith of Cliftonasked Her Majesty's Government:
How Guernsey's maintenance of the Alderney breakwater, at an approximate cost of £450,000 per annum, contributes to the defence of the United Kingdom and to meeting the United Kingdom's NATO commitments. [HL3245]
§ Lord Falconer of Thoroton:The cost of maintaining the Alderney breakwater, borne by the insular authorities since 1987, is one part of the voluntary annual contribution made by Guernsey towards defence and overseas representation, which are the responsibility of the United Kingdom. This contribution is not linked to any specific defence expenditure.
2WA