Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

UK Defences

Monday 14 October 2024 · 6 questions

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Answered 2 Partly answered 3 Not answered 0

Key points

  • The strategic defence review will consider all aspects of defence to ensure the UK is secure at home and strong abroad.
  • The Minister aims to innovate faster in defence procurement, especially in cyber-security and AI, to support small businesses and start-ups.
  • The Government values the Gurkha contribution to UK security and is working to address past issues affecting Gurkha veterans.

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Q1 David Pinto-Duschinsky Lab Hendon
Defence
Context

The strategic defence review is under consideration to secure the UK's defences.

Question

What steps he is taking to help secure the future of the UK's defences, given ongoing reviews and spending commitments?

Answer from Luke Pollard

The strategic defence review will consider all aspects of defence so that the United Kingdom is both secure at home and strong abroad. It will ensure that defence is central to both the security and the economic growth and prosperity of our homeland. The SDR will set out a deliverable and affordable plan within the trajectory of spending 2.5% of GDP on defence.

Answered
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Q2 Chi Onwurah Lab Newcastle upon Tyne Central and West
Defence Science & Technology
Context

The Department's future capability programme has accelerated drone development for Ukraine.

Question

How will the Minister ensure that lessons from rapid drone development are adopted across defence procurement, especially in cyber-security and AI, to support British SMEs?

Answer from Luke Pollard

The experience we see in Ukraine means that we need to innovate faster, have more spiral development and bring more talent into these sectors. We work with NATO, Five Eyes and AUKUS partners to ensure the supply chain benefits, including small businesses and start-ups.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Details on specific steps or timeline for integrating lessons across procurement processes

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Q3 David Pinto-Duschinsky Lab Hendon
Defence Veterans
Context

The Gurkhas have an important role in the UK's defence. Previous Government failures need addressing.

Question

Does the Minister agree that the Gurkha Regiment has a vital future role? What steps are being taken to address past issues and will he meet me to discuss these issues?

Answer from Luke Pollard

The Government value the Gurkha contribution to UK security and take supporting veterans seriously. The Minister meets the Nepal ambassador and Gurkha representatives soon to continue work.

Answered
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Q4 Gagan Mohindra Con South West Hertfordshire
Defence Transport
Context

An industrial dispute in the Royal Fleet Auxiliary affects national security.

Question

Does the Minister think it's a betrayal of defence that Labour prioritises rail settlements over seafarer support?

Answer from Luke Pollard

The Government want to support not only forces but also Royal Fleet Auxiliary. Discussions are ongoing to resolve industrial action that started under the previous government, and they thank those who serve in civilian roles as well.

Not addressed: Did not address whether prioritising rail settlements is a betrayal of defence

How: Changed Subject

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Q5 Sarah Dyke Lib Dem Glastonbury and Somerton
Defence Science & Technology
Context

There is a growing concern over the lack of STEM skills in the defence sector, impacting national capabilities.

Question

What steps will be taken to address the shortage of science, technology, engineering and maths skills in the defence industry?

Answer from Luke Pollard

The Government recognise the importance of south-west defence companies. They aim to invest sustainably in skills for both serving personnel and supporting roles, as part of a longer-term plan set out in the strategic defence review.

Partly answered

Not addressed: No specific steps or timeline provided

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Q6 Stuart Anderson Con South Shropshire
Defence
Context

Possible cuts to the training budget amid financial pressures raise concerns about military readiness.

Question

Will there be no cuts to the training budget in this or next fiscal year, given recent announcements on 2.5% GDP spending?

Answer from Luke Pollard

Despite financial pressures from previous government's decisions, supporting armed forces' training remains a priority. The Government takes steps to ensure that our armed forces have what they need.

Partly answered

Not addressed: No confirmation of no cuts or specific budget details

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