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Wales’s Contribution to UK Armed Forces
30 November 2021
Lead MP
Fay Jones
Responding Minister
James Heappey
Tags
DefenceEmploymentForeign Affairs
Word Count: 4891
Other Contributors: 6
At a Glance
Fay Jones raised concerns about wales’s contribution to uk armed forces in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.
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:
Lead Contributor
Opened the debate
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.
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.
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
Government Response
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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Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy
About Westminster Hall Debates
Westminster Hall debates are a chance for MPs to raise important issues affecting their constituents and get a response from a government minister. Unlike Prime Minister's Questions, these debates are more in-depth and collaborative. The MP who secured the debate speaks first, other MPs can contribute, and a minister responds with the government's position.