Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The defence sector in the South-West provides over 40,000 jobs and contributes more than £3 billion to the economy. Local firms face frustration due to delays in the Defence Investment Plan and a slow procurement process.
What steps are being taken to expedite defence procurement? In West Dorset, defence sector companies provide skilled employment and apprenticeships but face repeated delays in the defence investment plan and a slow procurement process. Companies fear relocating to Europe or the US by next year. How will releasing the DIP benefit businesses, especially SMEs?
We have signed 1,200 major defence deals since the general election, and analysis shows they deliver benefit for 8,000 SMEs and micro-SMEs. We will continue to increase direct spend with small businesses by speeding up procurement. The previous system was broken, but we are improving it.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not address how the release of DIP specifically benefits South-West defence firms or SMEs
We Will Continue To Increase Direct Spend With Small Businesses
Speeding Up Procurement
Response accuracy
Q2
Direct Answer
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Context
AUKUS announced new technologies for unmanned drone vehicles. Companies such as Skycutter are developing sovereign capabilities.
Beyond AUKUS, will the Minister look at drone capability and investment plans into companies like Skycutter to ensure they stay here?
The Government are committed to increasing funding for autonomy and drones. We have invested more capabilities and will continue exporting these to allies. The defence investment plan, coming soon, should see more of this.
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Assessment & feedback
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Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
FalconWorks at Warton is part of the BAE Systems family, leading in unmanned aircraft technology.
Will the Minister commit to continuing work with companies such as FalconWorks that support many jobs in Fylde?
I commend FalconWorks and BAE Systems. The Government have established UK Defence Innovation, with a £400 million annual budget to support innovation in equipment procurement.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not commit explicitly to ongoing work with FalconWorks
Join The Hon Gentleman In Commending
Set Out That 10% Of Our Equipment Budget
Response accuracy
Q4
Direct Answer
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Context
The MOD needs to understand the scale of drone production required now and in the future.
Are we understanding the scale and numbers of drones and counter-drones needed, and on a mass scale?
Yes, one pillar of the strategic defence review is learning from Ukraine. We continue investment in high-end drone capabilities, mass effect delivery, and supply chain shortages like motors, magnets, cameras.
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Assessment & feedback
null
Response accuracy
Q5
Partial Answer
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Context
Delays in the DIP are causing uncertainty for defence SMEs. These companies stand ready to grow, but delays risk losing opportunities overseas.
Has an economic assessment been conducted on the impact of delayed DIP publication? Will commit to publishing one?
We have signed 1,200 contracts since the election. Companies produce jobs and apprenticeships; we spend more with British firms and will continue.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not commit to conducting or publishing an economic assessment
Not Addressing Delays In Dip
Changing Topic To Contract Signings
Response accuracy