Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP visited the RAF air cadets in Uxbridge, observing that the cadet programme offers young people various opportunities such as learning STEM subjects, travel experiences, and Duke of Edinburgh awards. The MP highlighted that volunteer support and funding for facility expansion are crucial for the 30 by 30 initiative.
I recently had the honour of visiting the RAF air cadets in Uxbridge, where I was shown at first hand the amazing experiences that the cadets offers to young people. As well as being a route into the armed forces, they learn new science, technology, engineering and maths subjects, travel the UK and get their Duke of Edinburgh award, and some also pick up a musical instrument for the first time. This is why it is vital that we expand the cadets through the 30 by 30 initiative. To enable that to take place, what consideration has been given to how we enable more people to volunteer to run cadet forces and to how they can access funding to expand their facilities?
I am delighted to hear about the fantastic opportunities given by the air cadets in my hon. Friend’s constituency. I can assure him that delivering the 30 by 30 expansion programme requires a detailed assessment of key foundational areas, including cadet growth, the adult volunteer proposition and the cadet estate. Planning is under way to ensure that the activities yield maximum gain and that the fantastic benefits of the cadet experience are available to more young people across the country.
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Assessment & feedback
The Minister did not provide specific details on how volunteering will be enabled or how funding access for facility expansion will work.
Response accuracy