Trident Renewal 2024-02-19
2024-02-19
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP is concerned about the financial implications of the Trident replacement due to rising inflation and pressure on government budgets.
What recent estimate has been made of the lifetime cost of Trident renewal. The Dreadnought submarine programme faces higher-than-expected inflation, adversely impacting its cost forecasts. Given this context, what are the total lifetime costs?
The Dreadnought submarine programme remains within overall budget and on track for HMS Dreadnought to enter service in the early 2030s. Inflation has impacted forecasts, but it is too early to provide cost estimates for the replacement warhead programme.
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Assessment & feedback
The total lifetime costs of Trident renewal were not provided.
It Is Too Early To Provide Cost Estimates
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP criticises the lack of transparency in budgeting for Trident renewal and questions the policy when other government departments face financial pressures.
Does this mean the Minister does not know the total lifetime cost of Trident replacement? Budgets are under immense pressure because of inflation. Why is there a blank cheque approach to Trident?
The hon. Gentleman's policy would remove the nuclear deterrent despite global threats and Russia's sabre-rattling. We will invest in providing that ultimate guarantee to the people of the United Kingdom, but we are also publishing a supplementary estimate for the defence nuclear enterprise before the end of the financial year.
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Assessment & feedback
The question about budget constraints and transparency was not directly addressed.
His Policy Would Be Abject Folly
We Will Invest In Providing That Ultimate Guarantee
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP is concerned about the financial feasibility of replacing Trident within budget constraints, especially considering potential political changes.
Agreeing with the Minister on the importance of a continuous at-sea deterrent for UK defence, how can we ensure Trident is replaced within budget? What would be the impact of an SNP Government in Scotland?
I agree 100% with my hon. Friend that we must find a way to replace Trident within budget, and the worst possible thing would be an SNP Government in Scotland.
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Assessment & feedback
No specifics on how to ensure replacement within budget or consequences of SNP government were provided.
Response accuracy