Dr Julian Lewis: I thank the Minister [Dr Lewis Moonie] for the assurance [about Somme war graves] that he has just given. Surely such matters must be handled with the utmost sensitivity by Governments. In that connection, can he tell us how far plans have advanced for a national memorial for servicemen and women who died on active service since 1945? Not a lot seems to have been said since the Government announced that last year.

[Dr Moonie: I can say that plans are progressing. Of course, it is not the Government who are doing that planning, but ex-service organisations and others with a great interest in the matter. The plans are proceeding satisfactorily, although I can accept that the process may appear slow to the hon. Gentleman. However, progress is being made and I suspect that an announcement will be made in the not-too-distant future.]