Lord West of Spithead – 2016 Parliamentary Question to the Ministry of Defence

The below Parliamentary question was asked by Lord West of Spithead on 2016-02-22.

To ask Her Majesty’s Government how the charge for a Royal Marine bugler to attend ceremonies, such as the annual memorial parade for Colour Sergeant Prettyjohns RMLI VC, is calculated.

Earl Howe

The costs are calculated in accordance with Treasury guidance, the Departmental Management and Charging Policy and the Tri-Service Policy for the Service Bands and Military Musicians.

The Departmental Management and Charging Policy states that "The Armed Forces may be asked to participate in commemorative events organised by external bodies, such as commercial organisations and charities (including Service and ex-Service charities). Such events must not be at a cost to the Department." Charities and Ex-Service/Regimental Associations are eligible to receive an abatement for the capitation rates of military personnel. The cost of the additional insurances, transport and subsistence (if applicable) and the contract and administration fees are marginal costs and therefore cannot be abated without incurring a cost against the Department.