ROYAL TOURNAMENT

Early day motion 1483, tabled 26 January 2006 by James Brokenshire (Conservative). Signed by 37 members.

That this House notes that the Royal Tournament, which acted as a showcase for the work of the armed services and featured military bands, cavalry displays by the Royal Horse Artillery, an annual naval field gun race and mock battles fought by Gurkhas, Royal Marines and other special units of the armed forces, was disbanded by the Government in 1999 having been held for 119 years; further notes that whilst a new military tattoo was promised to be held each summer from 2001 onwards within the spectacular and historic setting of Horse Guards' Parade, with ceremonial elements, massed bands and pageantry, such an event has only been held once; believes that an annual high profile event in London focusing on the capabilities and operational activities of the UK's modern armed forces is important to show appreciation and recognition of the essential work of service personnel in the protection of this country and its interests overseas; and calls on the Government to examine the options for establishing an annual military tattoo in London to give effect to its previous public commitments.

Signatures by party: Conservative 27, Liberal Democrat 5, DUP 3, Labour 2.