Oral question asked in the House of Commons, by Andrew Selous (Conservative). It was answered on Monday, 14 November 2011 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Libya

Question: Given Libya's vast oil wealth, does the Secretary of State think it might be appropriate in due course for Libya to make some form of compensatory payment to the United Kingdom for those costs incurred?

Answer: The UK's motivation in intervening and playing a leading role in the Libya campaign was not based on an expectation of financial reimbursement; it was to prevent a humanitarian disaster and to protect the vital interests of this country. The Libyan situation, as hon. Members have already pointed out, remains fragile and our first priority is to assist the Libyan people and the Libyan Government in stabilising the situation. Seeking financial reimbursement is not a current priority.

Secondary information