Questions & Answers
Q1
Direct Answer
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Context
The MP expressed concerns about ensuring defence procurement supports small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). He mentioned visiting Romania as part of the armed forces parliamentary scheme, highlighting the importance of the NATO air policing mission.
What steps is he taking to ensure that defence procurement supports SMEs. I recently visited Permali and Cherry & White in my constituency, two local SMEs working in the defence industry doing an excellent job. Both are important local employers and keen to expand their businesses. Does my hon. Friend agree we should do everything to support such British SMEs through defence procurement?
SMEs are crucial to our success. Through the Defence Office for Small Business Growth, we are cutting red tape and proceeding towards our ambitious SME spend target of an additional £2.5 billion by summer 2028. Last week we announced a Gripen contract with Sweden for £500 million of benefits shared across the United Kingdom. I would be very happy to meet Cherry & White and Permali, two outstanding companies providing communication systems and composite materials to defence.
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Assessment & feedback
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Q2
Direct Answer
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Context
The MP highlighted the importance of supporting local businesses in Gloucester that are active in the defence industry and expressed interest in expanding their operations.
May I associate myself with the remarks of the Secretary of State about Romania? Last week I visited Romania through the armed forces parliamentary scheme, met armed forces personnel involved in NATO air policing. The Russian drone incident showed how important that mission is. Both Permali and Cherry & White are local SMEs working in defence doing an excellent job and keen to expand their businesses.
I thank the hon. Friend for his words about our armed forces and the Typhoons in Romania for essential air policing roles. With a NATO-first approach, we will continue to do that. I would be very happy to meet Cherry & White and Permali, two outstanding companies providing communication systems and composite materials to defence.
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Assessment & feedback
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Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP raised concerns about glitches in the application software for Somerset Armed Forces Day, which could result in volunteer veterans bearing tens of thousands of pounds of debt due to the current funding mechanism.
Defence SMEs are key supporters and organisers of Somerset Armed Forces Day, but the day will not be a success if glitches in the application software remain unresolved. Volunteer veterans may face tens of thousands of pounds of debt given how the funding works. Is the Minister willing to meet me and the organisers to resolve these challenges so that Somerset Armed Forces Day can go ahead?
I am not the Minister responsible, but that Minister has heard the hon. Gentleman's pleas and would be very happy to meet him to discuss that further.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific commitment to resolve funding issues or glitches in software
I Am Not The Minister Responsible
Response accuracy