Daesh and Global Affiliates 2021-09-20
2021-09-20
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
Daesh poses a significant global threat, including in regions like Khorasan.
What steps his Department is taking to help combat Daesh and its global affiliates including Islamic State Khorasan Province.
The UK plays a leadership role in the global coalition working to secure the enduring defeat of Daesh in Iraq and Syria. The UK also works with partners in the region to diminish the threat posed by Islamic State Khorasan Province through non-military means.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific actions or commitments to combat affiliates beyond Iraq and Syria
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
Pakistan and China are significant regional powers that can influence security in Khorasan and neighboring provinces.
May I give the Secretary of State a big warm welcome back to his place as Secretary of State at the Ministry of Defence? Does he agree that it is in the interests of both Pakistan and China to ensure security and to combat radicalisation in the wider region around Khorasan and neighbouring provinces? To that effect, what discussions has he had with counterparts from both those Governments?
The Minister for the Armed Forces and I will be setting off to the region this week to discuss that with a number of neighbouring countries. Pakistan and China are significant countries in the international community that we have to engage with.
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Assessment & feedback
Details about specific discussions held or planned with Pakistani and Chinese governments
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
There is concern that the reduction in National Security Council meetings could affect preparedness for threats such as those from Afghanistan.
The Secretary of State is right: the biggest threat from Afghanistan is the country becoming once again the base for extremist terrorist groups. The biggest risk is that the British Government give that the same lack of attention and preparation they gave to Afghanistan in the 18 months ahead of the NATO withdrawal, so why on earth is the Prime Minister now cutting back, by more than half, on his National Security Council meetings?
The right hon. Member will be referring to a report that he commented on previously. The Prime Minister often chooses that, on national security, Departments can generate their concerns and come together with national security Ministers to discuss the issues.
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Assessment & feedback
Reasons for reduction in NSC meetings frequency
Response accuracy