Defence Spending 2024-05-01
2024-05-01
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
▸
Context
The MP wants to know about recent discussions regarding defence spending levels in Scotland.
What recent discussions has the Secretary of State for Defence had on the level of defence spending in Scotland?
Scotland Office Ministers have regular discussions with the Ministry of Defence on all matters relating to defence. Defence spending contributes significantly to delivering thousands of high-skilled jobs and investment in Scotland. The Prime Minister announced that we will increase our defence spending to 2.5% of GDP.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Specific discussions about the level of defence spending in Scotland were not addressed
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
▸
Context
The MP inquires about the number of jobs that will be protected or created as a result of increased defence spending.
Will my right hon. Friend update the House on the number of jobs that will be protected and potentially be created in Scotland due to the decision to increase defence spending?
The increased investment announced by the Prime Minister will support jobs across the whole of the United Kingdom, including Scotland. Both economic benefits and job supports are expected from this decision.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Specific numbers on job creation or protection were not provided
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
▸
Context
The MP is seeking confirmation that the announced increase in defence spending will bring benefits across the country, including at military establishments in Scotland.
Will my right hon. Friend confirm that the recent announcement on increasing defence spending will benefit the whole country, whether at RAF bases or military establishments in Scotland?
The Conservatives are trusted to defend and protect the entire United Kingdom. The SNP has proposed abandoning our nuclear deterrent, which contradicts their desire for NATO membership.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Benefits of increased defence spending in Scotland were not addressed
Response accuracy
Q4
Direct Answer
▸
Context
The MP questions the Secretary of State on the assessment made regarding military accommodation standards following recent debates.
What assessment has the Secretary of State made of concessions from the Government on the standards of military accommodation, particularly in Scotland?
The programme of improvements started before last winter and amounts to £400 million spending. The Defence Secretary has been informed about members' disappointment with accommodation standards.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q5
Partial Answer
▸
Context
The MP highlights a significant rise in serious safety incidents at Scotland's Trident nuclear sites and asks about reports to reassure the public.
Has he concerns if there was a radioactive leak beyond safe levels, as reported? What reports will his Government produce to reassure those living near Trident bases?
We do not comment on matters relating to Faslane. For specific questions, she should ask at Defence questions. Regarding our nuclear deterrent and facility, we do not comment on internal matters.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Concerns about radioactive leaks were not addressed; no commitment to produce reports was given
Response accuracy