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Asked if there will be any delays to the Ministry of Defence’s planned spending on GCAP this year.
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Acknowledged Catherine West's speech and inquired whether Spirit AeroSystems would also benefit from GCAP, indicating widespread economic benefits across the UK.
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Asked if there will be any delays to the Ministry of Defence’s planned spending on GCAP this year.
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Inquired about conversations with Saudi Arabia regarding their interest in GCAP, especially considering recent reviews and delays.
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Cartlidge supports the SI and GCAP, stating that it is necessary for military capability, economic benefits, and strategic relations with international partners. He criticises potential delays in funding due to uncertainty about reaching 2.5% GDP defence spending by 2030.
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Lewis asks if there should be a strategy for maintaining aircraft that have been withdrawn from service so they can be made available to allies in future crises.
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Shannon commends the focus on modern technology and companies involved, asking about the role of aerospace in Northern Ireland within GCAP progress.
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Hendrick agrees with the necessity for sixth-generation aircraft but questions the strategic sense of forming a partnership with Italy and Japan while other countries are developing their own sixth-generation fighters.
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Francois inquires if a three-way programme represents good value for money, considering the challenges faced by the US with their similar project.
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Mr Speaker, thank you very much for giving me this opportunity to speak. As the only person who could sequence their maiden speech in amongst a debate about military aircraft, I am uniquely placed to contribute. My constituency is Leyton and Wanstead, where service to the community is fundamental. Whipps Cross hospital, at the centre of my constituency, has served the area for 121 years but needs investment from the government. The constituency is also home to notable figures and areas with rich heritage that inspire youth. It includes one of the most financially deprived areas in the country, yet there is a strong community spirit evident through various initiatives such as food banks and youth groups. Community leadership plays a vital role in providing essential services despite hardships. Efforts like those seen at Leyton Orient football club are key to me; they represent the importance of visible role models for diverse communities. I reflect on the murder of Stephen Lawrence, highlighting the need for better representation and the translation of personal experiences into policy. We must challenge divisive voices openly in our politics while addressing underlying issues without fear. Service values and support from family and friends have been pivotal throughout my life and military career.
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Welcomed the Government’s commitment to the global combat air programme, emphasised the importance of a strategic defence review post-major political change. Cited expert opinions highlighting previous reviews’ cost-cutting nature. Called for thorough consideration of ends and ways before means in the upcoming review. Highlighted concerns over the future of Tempest fighter aircraft procurement, urging for near-term versus long-term spending trade-offs to be carefully considered. Stressed the importance of interoperability between GCAP and SCAF projects from France, Germany, and Spain. Questioned whether 26 tranche 1 Typhoon fighter aircraft should be upgraded instead of being cannibalised for spare parts. Asked three key questions: geopolitical assumptions, interoperability considerations, and potential cuts to any of the three initiatives.
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Agreed with Richard Foord’s analysis of past strategic defence reviews, particularly praising the 1998 review for its longevity due to non-partisan contributions. Encouraged Labour Ministers to adopt an open process for inputs during the upcoming review.
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Welcomed the Deputy Speaker, congratulated the hon. Member for Leyton and Wanstead on his maiden speech, questioned why FCDO is handling a defence-related statutory instrument instead of MOD, emphasised GCAP's importance despite upcoming defence reviews, highlighted strong support from Japan and Italy, warned against cancellation due to potential reputational damage and impact on UK's tilt towards the Pacific, stressed the need for lean management in the GCIP and realistic pricing estimates.
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Welcomes the statutory instrument which gives effect to the convention on GCAP, emphasising its importance for national defence and sovereignty. Advocates for continued investment in complex combat air systems and criticises past decisions such as the TSR-2 fiasco. Highlights the economic benefits of GCAP for constituencies in Scotland and England. Calls on the Minister for the Armed Forces to challenge Treasury dogma regarding GCAP, ensuring that future decisions are not based solely on immediate financial costs but also long-term strategic value. Raises concerns about potential duplication with the French-led FCAS programme and stresses the importance of export success for GCAP.
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Supports the statutory instrument while criticising the Prime Minister's lukewarm stance on GCAP at Farnborough. Emphasises the importance of GCAP not only for national defence but also as a bridge to future unmanned combat systems. Advocates for increased rhetoric from Ministers and senior officials to reinforce support for GCAP, highlighting its significance for the UK’s defence industrial base and international reputation.
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Congratulated the Deputy Speaker on her accession to the throne, acknowledged the hon. Member for South Suffolk's comments regarding a soldier attack, thanked Members for supporting the SI without a vote. Highlighted key points raised will be sent to those in charge of the review including the Minister for the Armed Forces. Passed feedback from visits and supportive comments from other Members. Emphasised the role of Japan and Italy in the process and the importance of further partnerships. Mentioned the Global Combat Air Programme aims and government objectives, encouraging support for the order.