Commons Sense

House of Commons · Westminster Hall

Wales’s Contribution to UK Armed Forces

30 November 2021 · 6 other contributors · 4,891 words

Opened by Fay Jones Con Brecon and Radnorshire

Responding minister: James Heappey

DefenceWalesVeterans

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

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Fay Jones raised concerns about wales’s contribution to uk armed forces in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.

Key points

  • The Member of Parliament for Brecon and Radnorshire expressed concerns over the planned 2027 closure of Brecon barracks, highlighting its historical, operational, and economic significance.
  • The MP asked the government to maintain the operation of Brecon barracks and urged for the recognition of a veterans commissioner to provide consistent support for former military personnel in Wales.
  • The Minister acknowledged the absence of a veterans commissioner in Wales but noted that Wales outperforms England in recruitment to the armed forces, with 7% of new starters from Wales.

Key requests to Government

The MP asked the government to ensure the continued operation of Brecon barracks and to press the Welsh Government to recognize the role of a veterans commissioner to provide consistent mental health support and educational provision for former military personnel across Wales.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Fay Jones Con Brecon and Radnorshire

The Member of Parliament for Brecon and Radnorshire expressed concerns about the planned closure of Brecon barracks in 2027, stating that it is a historic site crucial to military history. She also highlighted the importance of the barracks as an operational centre during MACA support and praised its cultural, economic, and social significance for the town of Brecon. Additionally, she raised concerns about the lack of an independent veterans commissioner in Wales, arguing that veterans are unable to access the same level of support available in other parts of the UK.

Other contributors (6)
  • Alun Cairns Con Vale of Clwyd

    I share my concern about the Welsh Government's lack of cooperation in providing land for the Queen's Dragoon Guards at St Athan, originally the preferred site. Expresses concern that the Welsh Government prioritised a business park over a major new military unit at St Athan, highlighting the loss of significance for East Camp. Notes that the Special Forces Support Group remains at West Camp.

  • Daniel Kawczynski Con Shrewsbury and Atcham

    I am grateful to the hon. Friend for having this debate, highlighting strong links between Shropshire and Wales through the armed forces.

  • Robin Millar Con Aberconwy

    Robin Millar spoke about the importance of personnel in military operations and highlighted the role of Welsh veterans. He mentioned charities like the Royal British Legion and new initiatives such as Military Minds football club supporting veterans. He also discussed RAF Valley, a training centre for fast jet pilots that contributes to UK defence efforts but causes noise issues for constituents.

  • Sarah Atherton Lab Wrexham

    Welcomes the Defence Secretary's announcement to house a reserve company at Hightown barracks in Wrexham, noting Wales will not see a reduction in capacity or capability and that £320 million investment has been pledged. Mentions over 4,000 jobs in the military supply chain in Wales, highlighting North-east Wales as a hub for defence businesses such as Qioptiq, Airbus, MOD Sealand, and Raytheon.

  • William Cash Con Stone

    The Member congratulated Fay Jones on securing a win in keeping Brecon barracks open and acknowledged the importance of the Welsh Cavalry returning to Wales.

  • Stephen Doughty Lab Co-op Cardiff South and Penarth

    Highlights concerns of foreign and Commonwealth soldiers supporting Welsh units in the British Army, noting they often settle in Wales but can feel forgotten upon leaving the armed forces. Emphasises the need for support for these individuals.

Government Response

James Heappey

The Minister praised Fay Jones's efforts for Brecon barracks, noting that Wales outperforms England in recruitment to the armed forces with 7% of new starters from Wales. There are currently 2,100 regular armed forces based in Wales. The Welsh units have been active in NATO missions and public duties in London. Over £1 billion is invested in industry in Wales, generating significant employment opportunities. The Minister acknowledged the absence of a veterans commissioner for Wales but assured that efforts were underway to address this issue.

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