Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

UK Role in NATO

Monday 18 November 2024 · 3 questions

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

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Answered 1 Partly answered 2 Not answered 0

Key points

  • The UK will increase defence spending to 2.5% of GDP to lead NATO and encourage other European countries to meet or exceed the 2% pledge.
  • NATO remains central to Euro-Atlantic security, and the UK will embed a NATO-first policy in its future defence plans through the strategic defence review.
  • The UK Government has provided more military aid to Ukraine in four months than any previous government, demonstrating continued steadfast support for Ukraine and NATO.

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Q1 Bob Blackman Con Harrow East
Defence Foreign Affairs
Context

Following the election of President Trump in the United States, there is pressure on other NATO countries to increase their defence spending and resources.

Question

What action will the Secretary of State take to show leadership and ensure that other European countries step up and keep Europe safe from external threats such as Russia, China and beyond?

Answer from John Healey

Our commitment to increase defence spending to 2.5% of GDP will help set the pace in NATO, with 23 nations now meeting or exceeding the pledge level of 2%. The UK commits almost all its armed forces and nuclear deterrent to NATO.

Partly answered

Not addressed: The answer did not specify any concrete actions beyond stating commitments to spending levels.

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Q2 Bob Blackman Con Harrow East
Defence
Context

The question arises from the UK's strategic defence review and the need to maintain a strong alliance with NATO in light of changing international dynamics.

Question

What plans does he have to maintain the UK's role in NATO?

Answer from John Healey

NATO remains central to Euro-Atlantic security; our commitment is unshakable. The strategic defence review will embed a NATO-first policy in Britain's defence plans for the future.

Partly answered

Not addressed: The answer does not provide specific plans or actions, only general commitments.

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Q3 Chris McDonald Lab Stockton North
Ukraine Defence
Context

The question is prompted by the 1,000-day anniversary of the invasion of Ukraine and recent Russian hostility, highlighting the importance of continued UK support.

Question

Will my right hon. Friend assure the House of this Government's continued steadfast support for both Ukraine and NATO?

Answer from John Healey

Yes, in four months, the UK has stepped up military aid to Ukraine more than ever before. The Government now spends more on military aid towards Ukraine than any previous government.

Answered
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