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World War II: Anniversaries

Volume 494: debated on Monday 15 June 2009

To ask the Prime Minister (1) what representations he has made to the French authorities on the representatives of the UK Government to be invited to the 65th anniversary commemorations of D-Day and the Normandy Campaign; and if he will make a statement; (279130)

(2) what representations the Government received on the level of official representation of the UK at the 65th anniversary commemoration of D-Day and the Normandy Campaign organised by the French government; when such representations were received; and if he will make a statement;

(3) on what date the Government was first invited to send representatives to the 65th anniversary commemorations of D-Day and the Normandy Campaign organised by the French authorities; and what response was made;

(4) on what date the Government was first informed by the French authorities of the proposed programme of events to commemorate the 65th anniversary of D-Day and the Normandy Campaign.

I attended the 65th anniversary of the D-Day celebrations on 6 June, including a memorial service at Bayeux cathedral, and a ceremony with President Sarkozy, President Obama and Prime Minister Harper at the Colleville cemetery overlooking Omaha Beach. Prince Charles attended on behalf of the royal family. The palace have made clear that they were content with these arrangements.