Supply Chain Security 2026-07-02
2026-07-02
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP notes the vulnerability of UK economy to global supply chain shocks, citing impacts from wars and extreme weather events like El Niño.
What assessment have Cabinet colleagues made with regard to the adequacy of UK supply chains' security in light of recent shocks such as wars affecting food, fuel, fertiliser prices, and potential super El Niño event disrupting fish stocks, agriculture, and timber supplies?
We believe the El Niño has already started, we closely monitor it, and try to ensure resilient policies in all sectors. The supply chain centre will help anticipate future risks, identify inputs needed by UK, build domestic resilience, and foster global partnerships.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific preparation steps for El Niño event not detailed
Under Review
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP highlights the potential impacts of El Niño on global heating, extreme weather, fish stocks, and timber supplies.
How are Ministers preparing for the risks posed by a super El Niño event to agriculture and fisheries?
We closely monitor El Niño, aware of potential issues. We aim to have resilient policies in every sector including agriculture and fisheries. The supply chain centre will help anticipate future supply risks.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific steps for mitigation not detailed
Under Review
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP notes increased costs, administrative burdens, disruptions to supply chains and delays caused by the Windsor framework affecting businesses trading into Northern Ireland.
Will the Minister consider further steps to reduce these burdens and ensure smooth trade into Northern Ireland given potential negative economic consequences?
We are always looking at reducing burdens for businesses trading into Northern Ireland, considering all our international relationships including the EU and trans-Pacific partnership. We aim to ensure supply chain resilience.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific steps not detailed
Working With Partners
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP highlights the importance of UK SMEs in national defence supply chains, mentioning the Defence Office for Small Business Growth.
How is the Minister coordinating with the Department for Business and Trade to support SMEs in defence supply chains?
We are knitting together policies such as trade, critical minerals, small business, and industrial strategies. A growth-driving inputs list is produced for the first time specifying elements vital for SMEs' future growth.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific assistance not detailed
Broad Statement
Response accuracy
Q5
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP is grateful for the previous comprehensive answer but considers it less of an answer to his question.
How will a defence SME benefit from the support provided by the Department?
We introduced steel trade measures earlier this week. A defence investment plan aims to deliver jobs across the UK, ensuring production in the UK rather than relying on imports.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific benefits not detailed
Broad Statement
Response accuracy