theodi/ndl-core-corpus huggingface dataset:
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_458
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_458

James Cartlidge:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to recommendation 12 of the Strategic Defence Review, published on 2 June 2025, which Departments he plans to coordinate with to support his Department's export goals. \p Luke Pollard: Design work for the Exports function is well underway and building momentum through several pilot government to government exports. Initial stand up is expected no later than end October 2025 with full implementation continuing over the next 12 months. The MOD expects to work closely with FCDO, the Cabinet Office, DBT and HMT through the Defence Growth Board (the FCDO is not a standing member but can be invited).
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_459
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_459

James Cartlidge:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to recommendation 29 of the Strategic Defence Review, published on 2 June 2025, who will the new defence uncrewed systems centre be led by. \p Luke Pollard: The Strategic Defence Review recommends that a new Defence Uncrewed Systems Centre (DUSC) should be established at IOC by Feb 26, with centralised authority to accelerate the adoption of Uncrewed System technologies across all three services. Cost, staffing, governance and basing options are currently under development in tandem with the Defence Investment Plan due to be published in the Autumn.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_460
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_460

Mr Andrew Snowden:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether his Department has made an assessment of the potential merits of commemoration the contribution of British famers to national security (a) through their service in the Home Guard and (b) supervision of prisoners of war during the Second World War. \p Al Carns: The Ministry of Defence has made no such assessment. Farmers played an important role in the national effort to defeat Nazism, including through their service in the Home Guard and the supervision of prisoners of war. Farmers who undertook actual military service during the Second World War would have had their eligibility for appropriate military honours and awards considered in the immediate post-war period, alongside all other military personnel. However, any commemoration of the contribution made by farmers to national security during the Second World War would be a matter for consideration by the Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs and the Home Office.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_461
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_461

Matt Vickers:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what steps he is taking to reduce waiting times for military medical appointments. \p Al Carns: A new appointment management approach adopted by Defence Primary Healthcare (DPHC) medical centres across the UK, has resulted in a 26% reduction in waiting times for patients accessing doctor appointments in primary healthcare.

Total Triage, introduced by DHPC, is designed to reduce unnecessary face-to-face appointments and enable greater and quicker access to medical care for those in need. Under the new arrangements patients submit a request through the online form, or phone the medical centre where the request is triaged and allocated to a suitable qualified clinician. This ensures the patient gets to see the right healthcare worker at the right time.

This has resulted in an end to the usual morning rush of phone calls to book appointments, reducing pressure on reception staff, and in patients being treated more quickly.

Total Triage is part of wider programme of primary healthcare to deliver better healthcare to Armed Forces personnel, including the introduction of SMS appointment reminders and combining practices to increase access to medical services and resources.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_462
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_462

James Cartlidge:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to recommendation 14 of the Strategic Defence Review, published on 2 June 2025, what estimate he has made of the potential savings to the public purse of automating at least 20% of human resources, finance and commercial functions by July 2028; and what proportion of the total current cost of these functions will be saved through automation. \p Al Carns: The Defence Reform and Efficiency Plan (which is one of the foundations of our Defence Investment Plan) to be published in the autumn, will include several initiatives that will deliver automation across Human Resources, Finance and Commercial functions. This includes initiatives such as a Corporate Services Modernisation programme that will deliver new automated tools and systems across the functions.

The specific automation savings and timelines across all workforces are currently being defined in detail to meet the Strategic Defence Review recommendations. The benefits and associated financial savings with these initiatives are currently being worked up in detail as part of the Defence Investment Plan.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_463
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

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James Naish:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what recent assessment his Department has made of the state of repair of the (a) Deir El Balah War Cemetery and (b) Gaza War Cemetery. \p Al Carns: The Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) updates their website on the condition of sites in challenging locations around the world. The Commission reports that as a result of the recent conflict in Gaza, both the Gaza War Cemetery and the Deir El Balah War Cemetery have suffered extensive damage including to approximately 10% of the headstones.

A more detailed assessment cannot be carried out until the current situation subsides. The CWGC will, however, restore those sites to a befitting standard as and when circumstances allow. Until then, the locally employed maintenance team remain temporarily relocated outside Gaza.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_464
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_464

James Cartlidge:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to page 131 of the Strategic Defence Review: Making Britain Safer: secure at home, strong abroad, updated on 8 July 2025, what his planned timetable is for establishing a single Defence Medical Enterprise as part of Defence Medical Services. \p Al Carns: The Government endorses the Strategic Defence Review’s vision and accepts all 62 recommendations, including the recommendation the Defence Medical Services (DMS) should be empowered as the functional lead of a single Defence Medical Enterprise that meets personnel’s healthcare needs in peacetime, on operations, and in war.

The implementation of the Review’s recommendations is underway. Implementation will be priority business of the Department and will be executed through a whole of UK Defence effort.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_465
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_465

James Cartlidge:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to recommendation 57 of the Strategic Defence Review: Making Britain Safer: secure at home, strong abroad, updated on 8 July 2025, when the sprint review into the partnership between Defence Medical Services and the National Health Service will (a) commence and (b) conclude. \p Al Carns: The Strategic Defence Review recognises the interdependencies between the Defence Medical Services and the National Health Service and the need to strengthen this partnership to meet Defence medical needs, including in the most extreme circumstances.

The Government endorses the Review’s vision and accepts all 62 recommendations, including the recommendation for the Ministry of Defence (MOD) and the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) to conduct a sprint review of system-wide capacity and capability. The MOD will work closely with DHSC to create a shared understanding of current capacity, current and potential future need, and shared plans for delivery.

The implementation of the Review’s recommendations is underway. Implementation will be priority business of the Department and will be executed through a whole of UK Defence effort.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_466
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_466

James Cartlidge:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to recommendation 57 of the Strategic Defence Review: Making Britain Safer: secure at home, strong abroad, updated on 8 July 2025, who will chair the independent review board responsible for monitoring Defence Medical Services. \p Al Carns: The Strategic Defence Review recognises Ministers in the Ministry of Defence (MOD) and the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) must have direct access to information on the collective readiness of Defence, the NHS, and private healthcare to meet the demands of warfighting and other strategic health emergencies involving DMS.

The Government endorses the Review’s vision and accepts all 62 recommendations, including the recommendation an independent review board, akin to the US Defense Health Board, should assure ecosystem readiness, reporting periodically to Ministers, the Defence Board, and Parliament.

The implementation of the Review’s recommendations is underway. Implementation will be priority business of the Department and will be executed through a whole of UK Defence effort.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_467
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_467

Mike Martin:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment he has made of the potential merits of criminalising stolen valour. \p Al Carns: There are currently no plans for the Ministry of Defence to give consideration to criminalising Stolen Valour. However, the Department reserves the right to do so in the future. Armed Forces veterans are expected to adhere to the guidance regarding the wearing of medals. However, it is not a criminal offence for veterans, or the public, to wear medals to which they are not entitled, unless, by doing so, an individual is seeking to make personal gain or defraud others.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_468
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_468

Graeme Downie:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment he has made of the effectiveness of the RAF fleet of P8 Poseidon aircraft. \p Luke Pollard: The RAF has conducted three series of trials to evaluate the P-8A Poseidon aircraft and its systems against the Maritime Patrol Aircraft Programme's capability requirements. These assessments confirmed that the P-8A Poseidon is an effective platform for its intended roles.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_469
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_469

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to page 135 of the Strategic Defence Review 2025, what progress he has made in exploiting the Defence estate to generate income for the MOD. \p Luke Pollard: The Strategic Defence Review (SDR) sets a path for the next decade and beyond to transform Defence and make the UK stronger both at home and abroad. The Government endorses the Review’s vision and accepts all 62 recommendations.

The SDR highlights the significant opportunity to exploit the Defence estate to generate income for the Ministry of Defence (MOD) and to help meet the wider needs of Defence and the Government.

Given the scale and unique nature of the Defence estate, identifying and evaluating evolving land use requirements requires a fully considered approach.

Any land identified as part of this process will be announced in due course.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_470
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_470

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to his Department's press release entitled New munitions factories and long-range weapons to back nearly 2000 jobs under Strategic Defence Review, published on 1 June 2025, what are the completion dates for the six new (a) munitions and (b) energetics factories. \p Luke Pollard: The Strategic Defence Review committed to build at least six new energetics and munitions factories in the UK. The Ministry of Defence (MOD) is currently developing a plan to deliver this commitment alongside our wider Defence Industrial Strategy, delivering long-term investment to boost UK growth and generating skilled UK jobs and export opportunities. The MOD is carefully considering arrangements for those factories including potential locations, and more detail will be set out in due course. It is currently considered to be premature to discuss specific proposals or sites until the necessary preparatory work has concluded.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_471
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_471

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how many Type 83 destroyers will be built by the Royal Navy. \p Luke Pollard: The Future Air Dominance System (FADS) programme, which encompasses the Type 83 destroyer, is in its concept phase. On current plans, the Outline Business Case will be submitted in June 2026 and subject to the Defence Investment Plan is due for publication this Autumn. The number of Type 83s will be confirmed by the Full Business Case.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_472
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_472

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, when the Outline Business Case for the Type 83 destroyer is expected to be submitted. \p Luke Pollard: On current plans the Outline Business Case will be submitted in June 2026 and subject to the Defence Investment Plan due for publication this Autumn.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_473
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_473

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether StormShroud will give the Royal Air Force the ability to conduct a pulsed operation. \p Luke Pollard: StormShroud augments and enhances the effects delivered by Combat Air platforms such as Typhoon but given the complex, dynamic and interacting nature of the all the factors that may influence pulsed operations, it is not possible to say that StormShroud alone would be the deciding factor in the ability to conduct a specific pulsed operation.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_474
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_474

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what direct offensive role is played by UK Space Command. \p Louise Sandher-Jones: The Strategic Defence Review 2025 acknowledges space as a critical national infrastructure sector, a site of growing competition, and a domain that is central to warfighting. In recognition of space’s growing strategic importance, the Ministry of Defence carries out a wide-ranging programme of activity to ensure the UK remains at the forefront of innovation, deterrence, and operational readiness in this critical domain.

UK Space Command’s mission is to protect and defend national and military space interests and enable UK forces to operate globally.

The UK remains steadfast in our commitment to the Outer Space Treaty and the peaceful uses of outer space, ensuring space remains a safe, secure, and sustainable environment for future generations.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_475
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_475

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how many Protector MQ-9Bs have been procured for the Royal Air Force. \p Luke Pollard: Sixteen Protector RG Mk1 have been procured for the Royal Air Force.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_476
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_476

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what integration opportunities across the Defence enterprise have been identified by the DE&S battlespace integration centre. \p Luke Pollard: The Defence Equipment and Support (DE&S) Battlespace Integration Centre has identified numerous integration opportunities through the work undertaken to date on Integrated Air and Missile Defence, Future Air Dominance System, and other themes within the Strategic Defence Review. I am withholding information on the specific integration opportunities identified on the grounds of National Security as their disclosure would be likely to prejudice the capability, effectiveness or security of the Ministry of Defence (MOD).

Of equal importance have been the systemic opportunities to achieve better integration through understanding of dependencies and better systems-of-systems engineering. The majority of the value created by the Battlespace Integration Centre has been through collaborations on systemic improvements, such as:
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_477
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_477

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, when satellites (a) Juno and (b) Oberon will be launched. \p Luke Pollard: The Juno and Oberon satellites are expected to launch in 2027 or 2028.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_478
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_478

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what new sites for sovereign production of complex weapons and critical systems have been identified by his Department. \p Luke Pollard: The Strategic Defence Review committed to build at least six new energetics and munitions factories in the UK. The Ministry of Defence (MOD) is currently developing a plan to deliver this commitment alongside our wider Defence Industrial Strategy, delivering long-term investment to boost UK growth and generating skilled UK jobs and export opportunities. The MOD is carefully considering arrangements for those factories including potential locations, and more detail will be set out in due course. It is currently considered to be premature to discuss specific proposals or sites until the necessary preparatory work has concluded.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_479
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_479

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether he plans to procure the General Atomics MQ-9B SeaGurdian for maritime ISR operations. \p Luke Pollard: The Strategic Defence Review sets a path for the next decade and beyond to transform Defence and make the UK stronger both at home and abroad. The Government endorses the Review's vision and accepts all 62 recommendations. As referenced in recommendation 46, the provision of maritime surveillance capability for Protector is currently being considered.

The implementation of the Review's recommendations is underway. We will develop a new Defence Investment Plan to take onboard the Review's vision and recommendations and turn them into a delivery plan. We will ensure that this Plan is affordable, considers infrastructure and people, alongside capabilities and maximises the benefits of defence spending to grow the UK economy.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_480
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_480

James Cartlidge:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to recommendation 12 of the Strategic Defence Review, published on 2 June 2025, when he expects the review of export licensing policies to (a) begin and (b) conclude. \p Luke Pollard: The Strategic Defence Review sets a path for the next decade and beyond to transform Defence and make the UK stronger both at home and abroad. The Government endorses the Review’s vision and accepts all 62 recommendations.

The implementation of the Review’s recommendations is underway. Implementation will be priority business of the Department and will be executed through a whole of UK Defence effort.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_481
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_481

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how the Borealis command, control and data processing system will help better (a) monitor and (b) protect UK satellites. \p Louise Sandher-Jones: In March of this year, this Government announced a new £65 million deal with CGI UK to deliver for our national security by enhancing protection for our satellite technology that millions rely on, while boosting jobs and growth at home.

Project BOREALIS will enhance the UK's ability to monitor and protect crucial space assets, which underpin the UK's security and prosperity, enabling us to navigate the oceans, keep our military personnel safe, monitor the climate, and forecast the weather.

Project BOREALIS will integrate various data sources to improve the UK's ability to monitor and safeguard its space assets. It will also form the Command and Control architecture as the backbone for the National Space Operations Centre (NSpOC). BOREALIS will iteratively build the NSpOC's capability to support emerging requirements and missions.

Project BOREALIS will combine and analyse data from various sources to make the UK less reliant on allies. It aims to create a secure and independent system that provides high-quality information to help protect the UK's interests in space.

This project will provide UK military with a better understanding of the Space Domain, boosting the UK's space capabilities and delivering on the Government's Plan for Change.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_482
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_482

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how many StormShrouds will be procured by the Royal Air Force. \p Luke Pollard: I am withholding the number of StormShrouds to be procured as it would harm the Capability and Effectiveness of the Armed Forces.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_483
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

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Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what projects will be delivered via the RAF’s Rapid Capabilities Office beyond StormShroud. \p Luke Pollard: The Rapid Capabilities Office (RCO) remit is to solve problems on behalf of the warfighter, enhancing the capabilities delivered to the front line by exploring game-changing technologies for the Royal Air Force. Many projects are Technology Demonstrations or studies into levels of industry wide technological maturity. Therefore, projects are dynamic and subject to change as they are driven by operational needs.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_484
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

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Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment his Department has made of the potential merits of developing a wing-in-ground effect craft for (a) naval logistics and (b) Royal Marines amphibious assault. \p Luke Pollard: The Ministry of Defence engages routinely with the United States Department of Defense, the US Navy and the US Marine Corps on capability development and experimentation. We are aware of allied activity relating to seaglider technologies and wing-in-ground effect platforms and we keep all such emerging technologies under review.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_485
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

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James Cartlidge:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to recommendation 29 of the Strategic Defence Review, published on 2 June 2025, where the new defence uncrewed systems centre will be based. \p Luke Pollard: The Strategic Defence Review recommends that a new Defence Uncrewed Systems Centre (DUSC) should be established at IOC by February 2026, with centralised authority to accelerate the adoption of Uncrewed System technologies across all three services. Cost, staffing, governance and basing options are currently under development in tandem with the Defence Investment Plan due to be published in the Autumn.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_486
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

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James Cartlidge:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to page 90 of the Strategic Defence Review: Making Britain Safer: secure at home, strong abroad, whether he plans to form a new force to connect local communities with Defence. \p Louise Sandher-Jones: On Strategic Defence Review recommendation 27, the Ministry of Defence will develop options for the protection of Critical National Infrastructure in the event of crisis or conflict, including exploring the development of a new force that is modelled on the Reserves and connects local communities with Defence. Plans will be presented to the Secretary of State by December 2026.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_487
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

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James Cartlidge:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, pursuant to the Answer of 25 June to Question 61525 on RAF Brize Norton: Security, when he plans to publish the security review into the defence estate. \p Louise Sandher-Jones: I released a written ministerial statement on this matter today.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_488
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_488

Matt Vickers:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what recent steps he has taken to strengthen recruitment to the armed forces from underrepresented communities. \p Louise Sandher-Jones: The Defence Diversity and Inclusion strategy sets out a goal to be an organisation that, at all levels, appropriately represents UK society by increasing representation of underrepresented groups such as Ethnic Minorities, Women and LGBT. To that end, Levels of Ambition were created in 2018 and are regularly reviewed to monitor progress.

Programmes are in place to achieve increased representation including building a more inclusive culture, improving terms and conditions of Service (including flexible working), improving engagement and outreach with underrepresented communities, improving and streamlining recruiting (including targeted inclusive advertising) and candidate nurturing programmes (including focus on underrepresented groups).
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_489
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

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Mr Andrew Snowden:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether the UK Emergency Alert System has been (a) tested and (b) integrated with military contingency planning for civil emergencies. \p Louise Sandher-Jones: Contingency plans for civil emergencies are cohered by the Cabinet Office on behalf of the Government. Defence support is integrated into those plans where required through the Military Aid to Civilian Authorities (MACA) process. Emergency Alerts are integrated within those plans by the Cabinet Office. The alert system has been tested, with the last test having taken place on 7 September 2025.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_490
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_490

Graeme Downie:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how many times RAF Poseidon P8 aircraft have been intercepted by Russian jets in international airspace in each of the last 24 months. \p Louise Sandher-Jones: I am withholding the information requested as the disclosure of information regarding interactions between RAF Poseidon P8 aircraft and foreign military assets could, or would be likely to, prejudice the capability, effectiveness, or security of the Armed Forces.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_491
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

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Graeme Downie:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, if he will provide a breakdown of flight time of the RAF P8-Poseidon fleet in hours, by (a) training, (b) specific exercises and (c) operational in each of the last two years. \p Louise Sandher-Jones: I am withholding the information requested as the disclosure of information regarding a breakdown of flight time of the RAF P8-Poseidon fleet could, or would be likely to prejudice the capability, effectiveness, or security of the Armed Forces.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_492
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

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Mr Will Forster:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what the longest continuous period was during which a commissioned (a) vessel and (b) aircraft was not (i) deployed and (ii) operational. \p Louise Sandher-Jones: As the hon. Member's question is unbounded and the information is not held centrally, an answer could only be provided at disproportionate cost.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_493
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

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Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment he has made of the effectiveness of the UK’s ability to defend itself against space-based critical national infrastructure attack. \p Louise Sandher-Jones: The operational effectiveness of national space-based critical infrastructure is constantly being assessed against projected operational demands and emerging threats. Where necessary, adjustments are then made across the entire MoD Space enterprise to both ground- and space-based elements, wherever its most advantageous for preserving space infrastructure capabilities.

UK Space Command’s mission remains to protect and defend national and military space interests, and enable UK forces to operate globally. UK Space Command continues to work closely with both cross-Government and international allies and partners, to secure its freedom of manoeuvre and access to the space domain.

As the Strategic Defence Review set out, this Government is taking decisive steps to enhance the UK’s ability to deter threats in space and, if necessary, protect our systems. This includes playing a pivotal role in strengthening European security by investing in space control capabilities and deeper collaboration with NATO and allied partners.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_494
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

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Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how many Russian aircraft have been interdicted by RAF Typhoon Quick Reaction Alert aircraft in (a) 2023, (b) 2024 and (c) 2025. \p Louise Sandher-Jones: I am withholding the information requested as deterrence is a principal function of RAF Typhoon Quick Reaction Alert (QRA) and QRA is in turn an integral part of the air defence of the UK. The disclosure of information that might compromise the QRA deterrent capability would, or would be likely to, prejudice the capability, effectiveness or security of the Armed Forces.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_495
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

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Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment he has made of the potential merits of adopting the Sig Sauer XM250 as a potential replacement for the L7A2. \p Luke Pollard: The L7A2 General Purpose machine Gun (GPMG) is expected to be replaced under Project CAIRNS. Project CAIRNS is currently a pre-concept project and as such formal consideration of systems, including the Sig Sauer XM250, has not yet taken place.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_496
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

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Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of the emergence of Higher Airspace Operations as a domain. \p Louise Sandher-Jones: Thje Ministry of Defence is engaged with the UK Civil Aviation Authority and the Department of Transport in the UK Airspace Modernisation Strategy, which will consider the integration of new entrants with established airspace users.

The range of potential activities and platform types being considered at high altitudes spans from hypersonic passenger flights to slow-moving, lighter-than-air platforms designed for extended loiter times, such as those used for mobile phone transmission. The integration of these platforms, along with airspace management and the provision of air traffic services, presents a significant challenge that is widely recognised on an international scale.

My officials continue to work with UK and international partners through a range of working groups.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_497
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_497

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment has he made of the potential merits of increasing the overall capability of the National Space Operations Centre. \p Louise Sandher-Jones: The National Space Operations Centre acts as a central hub for UK Space Domain Awareness operations, working in collaboration with UK Space Agency and Met Office.

The Ministry of Defence (MOD) is investing in research and improving the UK's ability to monitor and understand activities in space. This includes upgrading the National Space Operations Centre and developing new space monitoring sensors. Across Government, UK Space Domain Awareness requirements have been generated, which will support a coordinated approach to building a network of sensors and data systems, using information from various sources.

The National Space Operations Centre proactively identifies and evaluates new capability development opportunities, ensuring they are prioritised to align with the MOD requirements, working with the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology.

As the space domain continues to become more congested, contested, and competitive we expect the National Space Operations Centre responsibilities and capabilities to expand over time, continuing to support the growing UK space sector and protect UK interests in, from, and to space.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_498
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_498

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment has he made of the potential merits of establishing UK Space Command as an independent branch of the UK armed forces. \p Louise Sandher-Jones: UK Space Command remains an integral part of the Ministry of Defence and the UK Armed Forces, working collaboratively to ensure it remains a key component of UK Defence. Its role and effectiveness are continuously reviewed.

Whilst there are no plans for this to change, at an appropriate time the future development of UK Space Command will be reviewed.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_499
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_499

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what independent capability the UK has to protect its own space assets and interests. \p Louise Sandher-Jones: UK Space Command’s mission is to protect and defend national and military space interests, and enable UK forces to operate globally.

The National Space Operations Centre (NSpOC) works to protect the UK from space-related threats and risks. As the military component of NSpoC, No 1 Space Operations Squadron, monitors space activity, defends the UK’s ability to operate in space, and supports military missions with space expertise.

No 2 Space Warning Squadron provides vital support to UK Space Command and allied operations. The squadron contributes to NATO security through global missile warning, and also supports Space Domain Awareness through the detection, tracking, and identification of objects in Space.

The Strategic Defence Review reinforced this Government's commitment to increasing defence spending and strengthening the UK's space capabilities, with clear recommendations to invest in nationally separable capability to control the domain at a time and place of our choosing, global decision advantage, and space-based sensors to understand and act.

Owing to the sensitive nature of UK Space Command’s mission and work, we cannot disclose details on the exact capability utilised as part of its mission or its overall development plans.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_500
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_500

James Cartlidge:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to recommendation 25 of the Strategic Defence Review: Making Britain Safer: secure at home, strong abroad, published on 2 June 2025, who will lead the review of the principle elements of the Integrated Global Defence Network. \p Louise Sandher-Jones: The review of the principal elements of the Integrated Global Defence Network (IGDN) will be led by the two-star military and civilian IGDN Directors, with three-star military oversight; and in collaboration with the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_501
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_501

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, from where does UK Space Command recruit space warfighters. \p Louise Sandher-Jones: UK Space Command is a Joint Command staffed by the Royal Navy, British Army, and Royal Air Force, alongside Civil Servants and contractors.

Civil Service positions within the Space Enterprise are conducted as part of fair and open recruitment, and any new position will be posted on the Civil Service Jobs website. Military positions are filled as part of standard military assignment processes.

UK Space Command will continue to grow in line with Government requirements.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_502
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_502

James Naish:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what discussions he has had with the Chancellor of the Exchequer on the potential merits of introducing higher-rate Stamp Duty Land Tax relief for serving personnel who maintain a second home in relation to service need. \p Louise Sandher-Jones: In recognition of an inherently mobile career, frequently remote bases and terms of service, Regular Service and Full Time Reserve Service (Full Commitment) personnel are provided with high quality subsidised accommodation. The accommodation offered will be within an appropriate distance of an individual’s duty unit and personnel may be eligible for allowances to support the cost of moving.

The purchase of privately owned property and the payment of Stamp Duty Land Tax is considered a private life matter. Therefore, the Ministry of Defence has conducted no assessment of the kind described and no discussions have taken place with the Chancellor of the Exchequer on the matter.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_503
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_503

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what percentage of RAF infrastructure is more than 50 years old. \p Luke Pollard: This information is not held centrally and could be provided only at disproportionate cost.

I hope the hon. Gentleman will understand that considerable amounts of the defence estate is over 50 years old but the Government does not keep statistics based on age, but rather current use types. As such, we cannot provide that information without incurring disproportionate cost.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_504
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_504

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what steps he is taking to increase the pan space at RAF Akrotiri in order to accommodate the increase in air assets held at the base. \p Louise Sandher-Jones: There are currently no plans to expand the available ‘pan space’ at RAF Akrotiri. The Ministry of Defence is well set to expand at RAF Akrotiri should the need arise.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_505
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_505

James Cartlidge:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to page 79 of the Strategic Defence Review: Making Britain Safer: secure at home, strong abroad, published on 2 June 2025, whether he has a target date for forming a dedicated training programme for international defence engagement. \p Louise Sandher-Jones: A training programme has been in place since the formation of the Defence Attaché & Loan Service Centre in 2016, preparing personnel to deploy into International Defence Engagement Roles across the world. Following the publication of the Strategic Defence Review, an internal review aiming to establish a Defence Diplomacy Career Stream is underway to further professionalise our people, which will include an examination of training provision. Until this review is complete, a target date for changes to the training pathway cannot be set.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_506
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_506

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment has he made of the potential merits of renegotiating the 1967 Outer Space Treaty to reflect current exploitation of the difference between (a) air and (b) space. \p Louise Sandher-Jones: The Outer Space Treaty (OST) is the cornerstone of international space law with all major space-faring nations being party to this treaty. The Treaty explicitly affirms that activities in the exploration and use of outer space must be carried out in accordance with international law, including the United Nations (UN) Charter. This includes the prohibition on the threat or use of force, which applies to States’ space activities, as it does to other domains. The Treaty also prohibits the stationing of nuclear weapons or other weapons of mass destruction in outer space. The Treaty does not impose a formal distinction between air and outer space, and this has not impeded the UK’s ability to pursue its ambitious goals in both aviation and space.

We remain steadfast in our commitment to the Outer Space Treaty and the peaceful uses of outer space, ensuring space remains a safe, secure, and sustainable environment for future generations. Across government, there are efforts to strengthen governance of space more generally though the UN, including working through the UN Committee On the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS) and promoting norms rules and principles of responsible space behaviours to address threats to space systems.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_507
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_507

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what manpower reduction Protector MQ-9B’s ATLC function creates by replacing the LRE capability of Reaper. \p Louise Sandher-Jones: The Automatic Take Off and Land Capability (ATLC) of Protector negates the requirement for Ground Control Station (GCS), pilot, sensor operator and GCS support staff to be present at any forward operating base to conduct the take-off and landing. As Protector is operated under a different construct to Reaper, no overall direct comparison can be made.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_508
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_508

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, by what date sufficient crews and familiarisation with the new Protector system will be achieved to allow Protector to be deployed. \p Louise Sandher-Jones: I am withholding the requested information as it would harm the Capabilities and Security of the Armed Forces.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_509
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_509

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, from when will Protector be certified to operate in Class A to C airspace. \p Louise Sandher-Jones: As a military registered air system, Protector RG Mk1 only requires certification by the Military Aviation Authority, who issued the Military Type Certificate for the air system in April 2025. Protector is already capable of operating in Class A and C airspace in the UK and the MOD continues to work closely with the CAA and international authorities to integrate Protector globally.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_510
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_510

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, from what date RPAS will pilots be streamed for selection rather than recruited separately from crewed systems. \p Louise Sandher-Jones: With effect from 1 April 2024, Pilots recruited into the Royal Air Force are eligible to be streamed to Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS) following completion of their Elementary Flying Training.
wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_511
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-09-08)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-09-08 conversation_511

James Cartlidge:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to recommendation 37 of the Strategic Defence Review: Making Britain Safer: secure at home, strong abroad, published on 2 June 2025, when he expects the Royal Navy’s hybrid carrier airwing to reach full operational capability. \p Louise Sandher-Jones: The Hybrid Air Wing, underpinned by the Royal Navy’s approach to Maritime Aviation Transformation, represents the evolution of the Fleet Air Arm to a crewed-uncrewed mix of drones, fast jets, helicopters and one-way effectors that will deliver enhanced lethality and combat mass for North Atlantic Sea Control, Homeland Defence and Carrier and Littoral Strike.

Fielding a suite of capabilities that puts Europe’s only 5th generation aircraft carriers at the heart of NATO, the Hybrid Air Wing will be Uncrewed Where Possible, Crewed Where Necessary. The Hybrid Air Wing is an iterative concept, with individual capabilities subject to spiral development to keep pace with the threat; this means that there will not be a single declaration of Full Operational Capability.

The investment decisions to support Strategic Defence Review recommendations are being developed by the Ministry of Defence and will be published in the Defence Investment Plan.