Written question asked by Lord Davies of Stamford (Conservative) on Wednesday, 4 April 2001, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 24 April 2001. It was answered by Lord Spellar (Labour) on Tuesday, 24 April 2001 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Ministry of Defence

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what the implications are for the defence budget of his Department's contribution to meeting the foot and mouth emergency; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: Mr. Quentin Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what the implications are for the defence budget of his Department's contribution to meeting the foot and mouth emergency; and if he will make a statement. [157728] Mr. Spellar: There are no significant implications for the defence budget arising from the support the armed forces are giving to MAFF during the current foot and mouth outbreak. It is normal practice when assistance is given to other Government Departments that additional costs will be refunded to the defence budget at the end of the crisis. The Ministry of Defence costs of combating the disease are, however, expected to be minor in comparison with the overall cost of fighting the disease.

Secondary information