To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs whether the Government have employed the services of Global Strategies Group in (a) Iraq and (b) Afghanistan; and if he will make a statement. (162882)

The Government have not to date contracted the services of Global Strategies Group in either Iraq or Afghanistan.

The Government ensures that all contracts are subject to a rigorous selection process so that we obtain best value for money. Any company engaged by the Government needs to pass through a stringent and transparent procurement process in line with Public Procurement Guidelines and best practice.