David Johnston (WA, Liberal Party, Shadow Minister for Defence) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

asked the Minister representing the Minister for Defence, upon notice, on 21 March 2011:

With reference to the answer provided to Question on Notice No's. 117-119:

(1) Who attended the Chief of Navy Counterpart Visit to Australia – Chief of Navy France events between 4 July and 7 July 2010.

(2) What was the cost per head for this function.

(3) What was the official purpose of this function.

(4) Who approved the expenditure.

Chris Evans (WA, Australian Labor Party, Leader of the Government in the Senate) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

The Minister for Defence has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question:

(1) French Personnel

There were five personnel in the French Delegation, which was led by The Chief of Naval Staff France, Admiral Pierre-François Forrissier, FN, who was accompanied by his wife.

Australian Personnel

There were eleven personnel from the Australian Delegation, which was led by the Chief of Navy, Vice Admiral Russ Crane, AO, CSM, RAN, who was accompanied by his wife. The delegation also included relevant officers within Navy International Engagement, and several supporting staff.

(2) Cost per function

(3) Chief of Navy counterpart visits between Australia and France are generally held every two years with hosting duties rotating between each country. The aim of the visit is to promote the relationship and discuss areas of mutual interest. The visit involves briefings and special committee meetings in Canberra and tours of naval ships and establishments. An important component of a counterpart visit is an associated strong cultural and spouse program.

(4) Chief of Navy's approved delegate, Director General Navy Business and Governance (DGNGB).