Defence Estate Optimisation Programme 2021-03-15
2021-03-15
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Direct Answer
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Context
The MP is concerned about the government's plans for a long-term investment in modernising military basing. The programme involves significant financial commitments and impacts operational training.
What plans does he have to review the defence estate optimisation programme? The 25-year multibillion-pound investment aims at resilience and excellence in personnel training. However, the MP wants details on ongoing reviews considering evolving requirements such as those from the integrated review.
The defence estate optimisation portfolio is a 25-year multibillion-pound investment in modernising MOD basing. It provides resilience and ensures that our service personnel can train in centres of excellence alongside those beside whom they will fight. We routinely review and assess the programme in the light of evolving requirements, including the contents of the integrated review.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The decision to consolidate the Army's presence in Weeton barracks is seen as detrimental. The MP highlights historical and operational benefits of retaining Dale barracks, suggesting it would enhance support coverage.
The decision to site the entire Army presence in the north-west at Weeton barracks will damage the operational and recruitment footprint. Retaining Dale barracks would provide easy access to parts of the north-west and other regions. Will the Government reconsider selling off the Dale barracks?
We continue to speak to local stakeholders about alternative uses for the site. I assure the hon. Gentleman that no disposal will take place before 2027 at the earliest. The armed forces will continue to be able to provide support to the north-west and, indeed, the whole of the United Kingdom.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific commitment on retaining Dale barracks was not given
Assurance Without Concrete Action
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
A series of National Audit Office reports highlight a serious funding shortfall in the defence estate over the next three decades. The MP emphasises the link between poor infrastructure and military effectiveness.
What steps has the Ministry of Defence taken to ensure financial sustainability? There is an £8.5 billion funding shortfall identified by the NAO for the next 30 years. How are they addressing this decline?
£18 million a year is spent on single-living accommodation and additional funding of £200 million was provided. The frontline commands intend to invest £1.5 billion over 12 years in new build and upgrade programmes. We take the issue very seriously.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific future funding details not revealed
Future Announcements
Response accuracy