To ask the Secretary of State for Defence pursuant to the answer of 1 June 2009, Official Report, column 18W, on Ascension Island, when he plans to write to the hon. Member for North East Milton Keynes in response to his query. (283752)

[holding answer 2 July 2009]: The decision by the Ascension Island Government to remove a variation in the Ministry of Defence’s annual property tax liability, which had the effect of almost doubling the amount, is currently being disputed. The MOD, therefore, has not paid this new tax liability in full. Urgent discussions are taking place between the MOD and the Foreign and Commonwealth Office about the amount of property tax owed. We are seeking an agreement that is fair and equitable, and assurance that the services received in return from the Ascension Island Government represent best value for money. I will inform the House once these discussions are complete.