To ask the Secretary of State for Defence when Alan Garwood's successor as Head of Defence Export Services is expected to be named; when he or she will take up the appointment; and if he will make a statement. (80855)

The Ministry of Defence and Mr. Garwood have agreed that, under the terms of his appointment, he will remain in post until September 2007.

It is anticipated that the process to select his successor will begin late in 2006.