Written question asked by David Lidington (Conservative) on Monday, 11 October 2004, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 25 October 2004. It was answered by Ivor Caplin (Labour) on Monday, 25 October 2004 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Ministry of Defence

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, if he will make a statement on his policy on the public funding of memorials to members of the armed forces who have been killed on active duty.

Answer: Mr. Lidington: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on his policy on the public funding of memorials to members of the armed forces who have been killed on active duty. [190661] Mr. Caplin: It has been a long standing policy of successive Governments that the cost of erecting memorials and associated projects are not usually met from public funds, but from private donations or public subscription. The MOD receives many requests from individuals, ex-Servicemen's groups and charitable organisations seeking assistance with various projects. The vast majority have worthy goals and can make an equally compelling case for support. It would be divisive and open to criticism from unsuccessful applicants, if the Government were to pick and choose which projects to support.

Secondary information