Army Restructuring 2021-12-15
2021-12-15
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Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The question arises from ongoing discussions about the restructuring and modernisation of the British Army, with a focus on how these changes will impact Scotland.
What discussions he has had with Cabinet colleagues on the implications for Scotland of plans to restructure the British Army. The plan includes expanding the army's footprint in Scotland from six to seven units and increasing the proportion of the Army based there.
My office and I have regular discussions with the Ministry of Defence on all matters relating to defence in Scotland, including the latest plans to modernise and restructure the Army. The review includes expanding the army's footprint in Scotland from six to seven units, increasing its proportion there. Additionally, the Secretary of State for Defence announced that 100 military personnel will support the booster programme in Scotland, while another 80 medics are being deployed to three NHS boards, bringing the total number of military personnel supporting health services to over 400.
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Assessment & feedback
The MP asked about discussions with Cabinet colleagues regarding the restructuring's implications for Scotland; however, the answer focused on the expansion and support provided by the military without detailing specific cabinet discussions or commitments.
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Response accuracy
Q2
Direct Answer
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Context
The 'Future Soldier' paper highlights the importance of defence to Scotland and its role in UK defence. It includes a £355 million investment in the Army estate in Scotland.
Does the Secretary of State agree that the 'Future Soldier' paper shows just how important defence is to Scotland and Scotland is to the defence of the UK and our allies, and does he share my enthusiasm that it delivers £355 million-worth of investment in the Army estate in Scotland?
Absolutely. Scotland plays a vital role in the defence of the UK. The Army's future soldier restructuring programme is great news for Scotland. Not only will it deliver £355 million of investment in the Army's Scottish estate, but Scotland will gain a major unit and we will see a greater proportion of the British Army in Scotland.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q3
Direct Answer
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Context
Soldiers from Scotland have played a significant role throughout history, including recent contributions like helping roll out the vaccine programme.
Soldiers from Scotland have had a central role in the armed forces over many centuries, from the charge of the Scots Greys at Waterloo, to the western front, to helping roll out our vaccine programme. Can my right hon. Friend assure me that that proud central role will continue as strongly as ever in Scotland following any restructuring?
Under the future soldier review, the Army's footprint in Scotland will be stronger than ever, recognising the immense contribution that Scottish servicemen and women make to the British Army. I am pleased that Scottish troops will continue the tradition, and they will lead the new Ranger Regiment, deploying alongside partner forces to counter extremist organisations and hostile state threats.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy