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Question
Questions the minister's absence of a statement from the Defence Secretary, notes Ukraine’s ongoing struggles, including ammunition shortages, and asks about future military funding, unspent international fund for Ukraine, and delivery timelines for weapons.
Minister reply
Proud of UK’s support to date but emphasises need for moving towards long-term self-sufficiency through industry collaboration. Acknowledges cross-party support against Putin's aggression. Highlights significant equipment sent including 10,000 anti-tank weapons, 4 million small-round ammo, and various other systems.
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Question
Inquires about the UK’s ability to replace ammunition given to Ukraine considering a prolonged conflict.
Minister reply
Acknowledges the importance of replenishing stocks and mentions contracts signed for NLAWs and lightweight multi-role missiles, as well as the interim replacement of AS90 gun with Archer 6x6.
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Question
The SNP stands fully behind the Government's actions to support Ukraine. The Foreign Secretary has confirmed that the UK will continue to support Ukraine in defence against Putin. What further details can be provided about this, including discussions with the Secretary of State for Defence and plans to encourage Hungary to lift its block on EU funding for Ukraine?
Minister reply
The UK and Norway are joint leaders of the MCC, which aims to secure access to the Black Sea and support the export of Ukrainian goods. The volume of shells and guns gifted by the UK is significant, with spare parts also being provided.
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Question
Can the minister reassure that work done to resupply Ukraine will enhance our own ability to restock ourselves and our allies?
Minister reply
The UK is seizing opportunities to broaden and deepen its defence capabilities, such as creating ordnance for both Ukrainian needs and our own benefit.
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Question
Why did it take the Government more than a year to sign contracts for new capacity for shell production?
Minister reply
The contract on the 155 shell was signed in July last year. This is part of an ongoing effort to restock both Ukrainian and UK supplies, including deliveries of lightweight multi-role missiles and STARStreak systems.
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Question
What extra support are the Government giving to Romania to ensure that the port of Constanta remains open for Ukrainian grain exports?
Minister reply
Romania is joining the Maritime Capability Coalition, and meetings with Romanian counterparts have taken place to discuss how to secure access to the Black Sea.
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Question
Can the minister reassure that the UK will continue supporting Ukraine in the coming months, especially for those who have settled in the UK?
Minister reply
The UK remains committed to supporting Ukraine through initiatives like the Maritime Capability Coalition and by providing crucial weapons such as air defence systems.
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Question
What long-term plans are there for supplying 155 shells and ensuring a continuous supply of artillery munitions?
Minister reply
There is a strong determination across the west to continue this effort, supported by the UK's defence industry which can help Ukrainian industry rise to the occasion.
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Question
When can we expect a full schedule for what aid the Government will provide for 2024?
Minister reply
The UK is playing a decisive role in keeping Ukraine free, having provided significant ordnance support including 300,000 artillery shells and 4 million rounds of ammunition.
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Question
Can the minister update on the UK's efforts to help Ukraine build its own military industrial capacity?
Minister reply
UK primes are already starting to sign agreements with Ukrainian counterparts, playing a key role in supporting Ukraine's defence industry.
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Question
In July this year, the Member visited Ukraine with Siobhan’s Trust and the right hon. Member for Chingford and Woodford Green (Sir Iain Duncan Smith). It was clear that many of the soldiers were being injured and not receiving enough support, and training was a huge issue. Can the Minister explain what kind of help is being provided for soldiers in terms of recovery but also to ensure they have proper support so they are not going into conflict unprepared?
Minister reply
The hon. Lady asks an excellent question on training. The Minister visited Salisbury plain and saw the Irish Guards, together with New Zealand and Australian colleagues, training Ukrainians who would have some weeks of training then go out to experience severe trench warfare. He is proud of the role we played in that but acknowledges a crucial part of it is the medical element. Around 65 medical personnel have been trained.
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Question
What assessments do our Government make regarding US funding for Ukraine and how does the Minister engage with communities supporting Ukraine?
Minister reply
The Minister champions community groups supporting Ukraine. Regarding US funding, he refers to a contact group meeting where Secretary Austin emphasised that the US is in it for the long haul as freedom is at stake.
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Question
Will the action plan for Ukraine be published before the end of the year?
Minister reply
The Minister says that they are delivering action every week in Ukraine, with a huge amount of ordnance supplied and tested. He cannot talk about specific details but confirms ongoing support.
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Question
Does the Minister ensure that we have the physical capacity to continue our support for Ukraine, make necessary financial commitments, and launch a diplomatic offensive?
Minister reply
The Minister confirms efforts in ensuring support and making financial commitments. He acknowledges unity in the west but emphasises the need to persist as the stakes are high.
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Question
Is there confirmation that funding for Ukraine next year will be increased, and how much additional funding will be in place?
Minister reply
The hon. Gentleman knows matters are still under discussion but the Prime Minister has been clear about the strength of commitment. The UK plays a decisive role as a convenor of an international effort.
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Question
What is the concern regarding US aid to Ukraine in light of rhetoric from US Republicans driven by Donald Trump?
Minister reply
The Minister hears total support for Ukraine from the US Administration, recognising strategic issues. He stresses that this is not just about Ukraine but has broader implications.
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Question
How can we ensure full support from NATO allies in continuing aid to Ukraine?
Minister reply
The Minister acknowledges steadfast support from the US and agrees with the need for unity. He confirms the importance of seeing the big picture.
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Question
Why has the action plan for Ukraine not been published before the end of 2023?
Minister reply
The Minister refers to ongoing actions on the ground and training since 2014. He does not obfuscate but simply refers to actual actions delivered.
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Question
Will the Minister commit today to publishing the action plan for Ukraine before the end of this year?
Minister reply
The Minister emphasises ongoing support through sending air defence systems, artillery shells, helmets, small arms ammo. He confirms the UK's role in continuing such actions.
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Question
Does the Minister plan to avoid a situation where UK defence is giving generous military aid while Russia benefits from North sea gas?
Minister reply
The Minister agrees to look into the matter further.
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Question
Two years into the conflict, hardship and devastation continue in Ukraine, particularly as winter approaches. With Russian forces firing artillery five to seven times more than their Ukrainian counterparts, what additional steps are being taken by the Government to ensure a sufficient supply of ammunition for Ukraine?
Minister reply
The Minister acknowledges the challenges posed by the winter months and confirms that significant amounts of ordnance have been supplied to date. He states that while specifics about the delivery methods remain undisclosed, strong collaboration with allies and the Ukrainian armed forces is ongoing. The focus has shifted towards aiding Ukrainian industry in manufacturing its own arms alongside joint efforts with defence businesses.
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Question
The MP thanks the Minister for his positive response, highlighting the commitment of the UK Government to Ukraine. With Christmas approaching, he emphasises the need not to forget that Ukraine is still at war and asks about aid and education for families with children to prevent a lost generation.
Minister reply
The Minister appreciates the passion and compassion shown by the MP in his question. He notes that total UK support to Ukraine amounts to £9.3 billion, including military and humanitarian aid. While focusing on humanitarian assistance is crucial, he feels most proud of the contribution towards preventing a potential Ukrainian defeat.