§ Norman BakerTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence for what reasons UK forces at RAF Croughton, are not allowed access to Commissary and BX services run by the US. [188752]
§ Mr. Ingram[holding answer 13 September 2004]: In accordance with the terms of the NATO Status of Forces Agreement the US Visiting Force is permitted to
import free of duty the equipment for the force and reasonable quantities of provisions, supplies and other goods for the exclusive use of the force" (Article XI (4)).These provisions, supplies and other goods are made available through Army Air Force Exchange Services (Base Exchange—BX) and Defense Commissary Agency stores.Her Majesty's Customs and Excise regulations require the United States Visiting Force to refrain from selling goods imported or purchased tax and/or duty free to any persons other than members of the US Force, its civilian component and their dependants.
§ Norman BakerTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what provision comparable to the Commissary and BX service available to US forces at RAF Croughton, exists for UK forces. [188753]
§ Mr. Ingram[holding 13 September 2004]: RAF Croughton is made available to the United States Visiting Force under the terms of the NATO Status of 1543W Forces Agreement 1951. The United Kingdom forces are not stationed at RAF Croughton and there is, therefore, no need to provide facilities comparable to the US Commissary and BX service.