International Terrorism 2021-09-20

2021-09-20

TAGS
Response quality

Questions & Answers

Q1 Partial Answer
Context
The MP asked about recent international discussions on tackling terrorism.
What recent discussions has the government had with its international counterparts to address international terrorism in Afghanistan, the Middle East, and North Africa?
I routinely engage at all levels nationally and internationally to tackle the threat of terrorism across the Middle East, North Africa, and beyond. We continue to work with allies and regional partners to ensure a safe and secure Afghanistan and prevent terrorist groups from gaining any foothold in the country.
Assessment & feedback
Did not specify recent discussions or outcomes of those discussions
Routinely Engage Work With Allies
Response accuracy
Q2 Partial Answer
Chris Law SNP
Dundee Central
Context
The MP asked about the impact of UK bilateral aid cuts to Iraq and Afghanistan on the potential for international terrorism.
What assessment has been made by the Ministry of Defence, in collaboration with security and intelligence services, regarding the impacts of reduced conflict, stability, and security funding to Iraq and Afghanistan on the increasing threat of international terrorism?
The reduction in funding is partly due to concerns that it could end up in Taliban hands. Counter-terrorism funding has increased by over 30% since 2015, supporting both civilians and special forces. We are procuring new capabilities such as drones.
Assessment & feedback
Did not address the assessment of impacts specifically requested
Reduction In Funding Is Partly Due To Concerns Counter-Terrorism Funding Has Increased
Response accuracy
Q3 Partial Answer
Context
The MP asked for an update from the Joint Terrorism Analysis Centre on the terror threat facing the UK post-Taliban takeover in Afghanistan.
Can the Secretary of State indicate when an update will be given to the House on the terrorist threat facing the UK following the Taliban's control over Afghanistan and its potential impact?
The Joint Terrorism Analysis Centre sets threat levels independently of Ministers. The House will be informed when changes occur. For updates, Members can apply for Adjournment debates or table written questions.
Assessment & feedback
Did not provide a specific timeline for an update
Sets Threat Levels Independently Apply For Adjournment Debates
Response accuracy
Q4 Partial Answer
Julian Lewis Con
New Forest East
Context
The MP suggested that long-term nation building is not feasible and asked if the government would review its counter-terrorism strategy.
Given that long-term nation-building from the ground up is no longer an option, considering terrorist attacks could happen again, will the Secretary of State institute a serious review of the counter-terrorism strategy?
Contest, our counter-terrorism strategy, is world-leading and periodically refreshed to meet changing situations. I have initiated work on how we deal with changes in the environments where we fight terrorism and what future capabilities will be needed.
Assessment & feedback
Did not commit to a serious review as requested
Contest Is World-Leading Periodically Refreshed
Response accuracy
Q5 Partial Answer
Context
The MP asked for an update on the work of French and British forces deployed in Mali and the wider Sahel region.
Will the Defence Secretary provide an update to the House on the operations of French and British forces in Mali and the broader Sahel area?
The UK supports Operation Barkhane with Chinook helicopters. We also have 300 troops on UN peacekeeping missions in Mali, addressing nation-building efforts. Intelligence channels are used to monitor threats like the Russian mercenary group Wagner.
Assessment & feedback
Did not provide a formal update as requested
Uk Supports Operation Barkhane 300 Troops On Un Missions
Response accuracy