Caribbean Nations

Debate between Lord Howell of Guildford and Lord Boswell of Aynho

Wednesday 29th February 2012 Lords Chamber

[Lord Howell of Guildford]

This is obviously a celebration in which we wish to participate. To mark the Diamond Jubilee this year—which of course is not the same as the anniversary to which the noble Lord has referred—Prince Harry will visit Jamaica and the Earl and Countess of Wessex will visit a whole range of other islands in the Caribbean. I think that that is all I can tell the noble Lord about the matter at the moment but it is very much in our minds.

[Lord Boswell of Aynho]

My Lords, does the Minister consider it important that there should be a continuing and visible Royal Navy presence in the area?

[Lord Howell of Guildford]

Yes, we agree that there should be. A Royal Fleet Auxiliary Ship is there all the year round. It has a royal naval presence on it for six months of the year, and it has had some success. The noble Lord is absolutely right.