To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what discussions he has had with the Merchant Navy Association on its involvement in Armed Forces Day 2010. (294704)

While I have not had direct discussions, I can confirm that the Merchant Navy Association are part of the Armed Forces Day 2010 Steering Group, and were in attendance at the first meeting held in Cardiff on 22 September 2009.

I can also confirm that an invitation will be extended to the Merchant Navy Association to attend and participate in Armed Forces Day events across the United Kingdom, including the National Event in Cardiff.