Service Accommodation 2023-09-11
2023-09-11
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The question arises from concerns over the adequacy of service family accommodation as highlighted by the Ofsted chief inspector, Amanda Spielman.
What recent assessment has been made of the adequacy of service accommodation for armed forces personnel? The Ofsted chief inspector, Amanda Spielman, has repeatedly said that she has deep concerns about the continued failures to improve service accommodation for armed forces recruits over seven years. Why have those improvements not been made despite her concerns?
The Government continue to invest significant sums in UK service family accommodation, with £337 million invested over 2020-21 and 2021-22 financial years combined and £163 million in 2022-23. The forecast for this financial year is £312 million. Concerns do not fall on deaf ears, as the Command Paper refresh includes a further £400 million for SFA.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific timeline and measures to address Ofsted's concerns were not provided.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The question arises from concerns over the adequacy of service family accommodation as highlighted by the Ofsted chief inspector, Amanda Spielman.
Ofsted chief inspector, Amanda Spielman, has repeatedly said that she has deep concerns about the continued failures to improve service accommodation for armed forces recruits over seven years. Will the Minister explain why those concerns from neutral Ofsted inspector Amanda Spielman have fallen on deaf ears and why those improvements are yet to be made?
This is an extremely important subject, and we care immensely about improving our estate. Concerns do not fall on deaf ears; the Command Paper refresh includes a further £400 million for SFA, which will double this year's spend compared to last year.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific timeline and measures to address Ofsted's concerns were not provided.
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The question arises from concerns over the Prime Minister's promise to house illegal migrants at Catterick base, which has not been fulfilled.
When will illegal migrants be placed in Catterick, as promised by the Prime Minister? The generals have said they do not want a bunch of Afghans and Iraqis next to their squaddies. We now understand that the Ministry of Defence is moving its soldiers out of RAF Scampton due to this issue.
I visited Catterick on Friday and discussed precisely that matter with senior members of the armed forces based there. The characterisation used is not correct; these matters are being considered objectively and carefully, but work is ongoing.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific date for housing illegal migrants was not provided.
Changing The Subject
Denying The Characterization
Response accuracy