To ask the Secretary of State for Defence pursuant to the answer of 17 January 2007, Official Report, column 1173W, on service personnel: South African citizens, what progress has been made on the officials’ visit to South Africa; and if he will make a statement. (128183)

[holding answer 19 March 2007]: The draft South African legislation on mercenaries and membership of the armed forces of other nations has completed its parliamentary process, and is currently with the President awaiting his assent although we are unable to establish when and if this may be given. Active engagement with the South African Department of Defence is on-going and we hope to secure a date for the officials’ visit at the earliest opportunity.