theodi/ndl-core-corpus huggingface dataset:
wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_18
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-03-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_18

Michael Wheeler:To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what steps his Department is taking to increase access to NHS dentistry in Worsley and Eccles constituency. \p Stephen Kinnock: The Government plans to tackle the challenges for patients trying to access National Health Service dental care with a rescue plan to provide 700,000 more urgent dental appointments and recruit new dentists to areas that need them most. To rebuild dentistry in the long term, we will reform the dental contract with the sector, with a shift to focus on prevention and the retention of NHS dentists.

The responsibility for commissioning primary care services, including NHS dentistry, to meet the needs of the local population has been delegated to the integrated care boards (ICBs) across England. For Worsley and Eccles constituency, this is the NHS Greater Manchester ICB.

ICBs have started to recruit posts through the Golden Hello scheme. This recruitment incentive will see up to 240 dentists receiving payments of £20,000 to work in those areas that need them most for three years.
wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_19
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-03-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_19

Ian Roome:To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, if he will publish the detailed results of each hospital's funding bid scoring against the Multi Factorial Review of the New Hospital Programme. \p Karin Smyth: The Department of Health and Social Care has indicated that it will not be possible to answer this question within the usual time period. An answer is being prepared and will be provided as soon as it is available.
wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_20
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-03-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_20

Helen Morgan:To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what proportion of savings from changes to (a) NHS England and (b) Integrated care boards running costs will go the consolidated fund. \p Karin Smyth: The Department of Health and Social Care has indicated that it will not be possible to answer this question within the usual time period. An answer is being prepared and will be provided as soon as it is available.
wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_21
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-03-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_21

Helen Morgan:To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what proportion of savings from cuts to NHS England and ICB running costs will be directed to (a) primary care, (b) secondary care and (c) social care. \p Karin Smyth: The Department of Health and Social Care has indicated that it will not be possible to answer this question within the usual time period. An answer is being prepared and will be provided as soon as it is available.
wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_22
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-03-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_22

Helen Morgan:To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, whether he plans to ask ICBs to reduce running costs by half. \p Karin Smyth: The Department of Health and Social Care has indicated that it will not be possible to answer this question within the usual time period. An answer is being prepared and will be provided as soon as it is available.
wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_23
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-03-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_23

Robbie Moore:To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, whether he has made an assessment of the potential impact of the abolition of NHS England on the timeframe for rebuilding of Airedale Hospital as part of the Hospital Rebuilding Programme. \p Karin Smyth: The Department of Health and Social Care has indicated that it will not be possible to answer this question within the usual time period. An answer is being prepared and will be provided as soon as it is available.
wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_24
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-03-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_24

Dr Luke Evans:To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what the cost to the public purse is of the redundancy package for staff being made redundant from NHS England. \p Karin Smyth: The Department of Health and Social Care has indicated that it will not be possible to answer this question within the usual time period. An answer is being prepared and will be provided as soon as it is available.
wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_25
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-03-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_25

Dr Luke Evans:To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what estimate he has made of the cost to the public purse of the abolition of NHS England. \p Karin Smyth: The Department of Health and Social Care has indicated that it will not be possible to answer this question within the usual time period. An answer is being prepared and will be provided as soon as it is available.
wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_26
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-03-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_26

James Cartlidge:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, pursuant to the Answer of 14 March to Question 37252 on Defence: Finance, what the real terms equivalent of that cash figure is. \p Luke Pollard: The Government’s commitment to increase defence investment to 2.5% of GDP by 2027 will result in a £13.4 billion increase to defence spending in cash terms in 2027/28 compared to 2024/25. The final real terms equivalent will depend on inflation rates between this year and 2027.
wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_27
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-03-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_27

James Cartlidge:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how many .22mm rounds have been (a) lost or (b) stolen from his Department’s facilities since 5 July 2024. \p Luke Pollard: The security of ammunition is taken very seriously within the Ministry of Defence (MOD), and we have robust procedures in place to deter, detect and prevent loss and theft. All losses and thefts are fully and rigorously investigated.

No ammunition has been reported stolen during that period.

The below table details 5.56mm, 7.62mm, 9mm, 4.6mm, 12.7mm and .22 inch ammunition lost from MOD Facilities from 5 July 2024 until 28 February 2025. This includes military establishments, ranges, training areas and on operations.

Of the 203 7.62mm ammunition rounds detailed in the table, 200 were lost overboard in the Solent from a Navy vessel
wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_28
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-03-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_28

Rebecca Paul:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what estimate his Department has made of the number of UK troops that could be safely deployed in a peacekeeping capacity to Ukraine without abridging other defence and security commitments. \p Luke Pollard: Discussions regarding how our military can support security guarantees for Ukraine’s future are ongoing.

I hope the hon. Member will understand that I can’t comment on operational details at this stage as revealing our force structure only helps Putin.
wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_29
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-03-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_29

Rebecca Paul:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what recent discussions his Department has had with international partners on increasing the protection of undersea cables and pipelines, in the context of Russian maritime activity. \p Luke Pollard: Subsea cables are critical to UK telecommunications digital infrastructure, and we are committed to maintaining and enhancing the security and resilience of that infra- structure. We continue to co-ordinate with HMG partners, particularly the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology who own subsea cables policy, as well as security partners, the subsea cables industry and international bodies, including NATO, to assess and respond to risks to subsea cables.
wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_30
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-03-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_30

Rebecca Paul:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment his Department has made of European NATO's ability to fill capability gaps that would be created by a potential US troop withdrawal from Europe in (a) air defence, (b) intelligence-sharing and (c) rapid deployment forces. \p Luke Pollard: European security is this Government’s foreign and defence priority and NATO is the cornerstone of our defence. The Prime Minister has been clear that European Allies must take greater responsibility for our own security, spending more and producing more. The Ministry of Defence continues its work to ensure the UK and European Allies step up their contribution to NATO as part of our ‘NATO first’ defence strategy.
wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_31
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-03-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_31

James Cartlidge:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, pursuant to the Answer of 06 March 2025 to Question 34642 on Army: Uncrewed Systems, whether uncrewed ground vehicles are being considered by the (a) British Army and (b) his Department. \p Maria Eagle: The Army has conducted considerable concept and assessment work into Human Machine Teaming over the last five-years, including trials with several uncrewed ground vehicles to consider their ability to share the soldier's burden, evacuate casualties, conduct resupply and more complex tasks such as surveillance and fire support. More recently, the Army has trialed autonomous minefield clearance to remove soldiers from more hazardous environments. Ultimately, uncrewed ground vehicles will allow the Army to reduce the risk to our soldiers' lives and achieve greater efficacy.

The Ministry of Defence has c£4.5 billion of current and planned investment in uncrewed systems across all three services. In addition, our drone strategy harnesses innovative capabilities from across Defence, enabling rapid integration, testing and evaluation of uncrewed systems whilst working in lockstep with industry. It will equip personnel of all 3 services with critical intelligence, reconnaissance, surveillance, strike and logistical capabilities.
wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_32
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-03-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_32

Andrew Rosindell:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what steps his Department is taking to help strengthen maritime security in the Caribbean region in (a) collaboration with British Overseas Territories and (b) other ways. \p Luke Pollard: A Royal Naval ship maintains a persistent presence in the Caribbean where it contributes to regional security through the conduct of counter-illicit trafficking operations, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief as necessary during the Caribbean hurricane season, and wider defence engagement. Defence also provides direct assistance to the Overseas Territory Defence Regiments through the provision of equipment and training, including maritime capacity building.

Defence maintains close relationships with independent states throughout the region and works in partnership with Canada, France, the Netherlands and the United States to align and conduct joint activity.

The Ministry of Defence works closely with the Foreighn Commonwealth and Development Office as part of a cross-HMG approach to the UK’s Overseas Territories.
wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_33
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-03-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_33

Andrew Rosindell:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether he is taking steps with his (a) Australian and (b) US counterparts on the integration of quantum computing technologies under the AUKUS framework. \p Maria Eagle: Quantum technologies remain one of the six areas of advanced capability collaboration being progressed as part of AUKUS Pillar Two. The Secretary of State for Defence alongside his AUKUS counterparts continues to support the development and integration of quantum technologies for positioning, navigation, and timing in military capabilities.
wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_34
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-03-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_34

Andrew Rosindell:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether he has had recent discussions with his US counterpart on the (a) future of AUKUS Pillar 2 cooperation and (b) potential UK participation in US-led advanced defence technology projects. \p Maria Eagle: The Secretary of State for Defence has used his recent opportunities for dialogue with his US counterpart to emphasise the importance, now more than ever, of our deep ties and collaboration on security and defence.

The UK continues to cooperate closely with the US within AUKUS Pillar 2, as well as bilaterally to develop advanced capabilities and increase interoperability between our forces.
wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_35
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-03-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_35

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what steps he is taking to move away from over-exquisite design in the context of the procurement of new capability. \p Maria Eagle: The Ministry of Defence is reforming its acquisition system to deliver defence capabilities at greater pace and secure the best possible value for money.

Central to this is the creation of a National Armaments Director to ensure our Armed Forces are properly equipped to defend Britain, to build up the British defence industry, and to reduce waste. A key element of this role is to harmonise procurement, working closely with wider Government, industry, academia, and international partners to deploy best practice and optimise investment.

We are engaging industry earlier in the procurement process to ensure requirements for new capabilities are informed by what the market can offer and with consideration of the potential for exports.

Through Spiral acquisition we will deliver a minimum deployable capability to the front line more rapidly - based on what is readily available from the supply chains or quickly adaptable from existing capabilities - then iterate to adapt quickly to a changing environment to meet the needs of our Armed Forces and other customers.
wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_36
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-03-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_36

Mr Tanmanjeet Singh Dhesi:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of US steel tariffs on UK military shipbuilding. \p Maria Eagle: The potential impact of US steel tariffs on UK military shipbuilding is still being explored. The UK benefits from a strong and balanced trade relationship with the US and we continue to share a longstanding, close relationship on all defence issues.
wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_37
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-03-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_37

Rebecca Paul:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what discussions his Department has had with NATO allies on the (a) size, (b) composition and (c) remit of a potential peacekeeping force in Ukraine. \p Luke Pollard: The Defence Secretary and the Chief of the Defence Staff met with counterparts in Paris last week to discuss the next steps for a coalition of the willing to defend Ukraine’s security – with 37 nations attending the military meeting, alongside NATO and EU representatives. This was followed by the Prime Minister hosting a call on 15 March with European counterparts, the NATO Secretary General and other world leaders to discuss support for Ukraine.

Our military planners convened again on 20 March to progress practical plans for how our militaries can support security guarantees for Ukraine’s future.
wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_38
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-03-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_38

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether he has had recent discussions with Cabinet colleagues on taking steps to meet the NATO Industrial Capacity Expansion Pledge. \p Luke Pollard: It is essential that NATO Allies ramp up their defence industrial capacity and production across the Alliance – to support Ukraine and for our own defence and deterrence. That is why we strongly support the NATO Industrial Capacity Expansion Pledge, which commits Allies to building on transatlantic defence industrial cooperation, delivering on our industrial commitment, and accelerating the growth of our defence industry.

The Ministry of Defence continues to work with colleagues across government to deliver new a Defence Industrial Strategy which will help us meet our NATO commitments, such as the NATO industrial Capacity Expansion Pledge.
wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_39
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-03-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_39

Damien Egan:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether his Department has made an assessment of potential domestic alternatives for future launches of UK Space Command satellites, in the context of the launch of the Tyche satellite. \p Luke Pollard: The Government is developing the UK’s emerging space launch industry, aiming to become a European leader in commercial small satellite launches. This effort involves approximately £111 million being invested in the UK’s launch capabilities, including a recent £20 million investment to enable UK rocket manufacturer Orbex to complete construction of their launch vehicle Prime. Defence supports the UK’s launch ambitions, working with the UK Space Agency to help develop a thriving UK spaceflight sector and with our international partners to assist their launch requirements. This includes involvement in the early development of NATO's STARLIFT programme to enhance space launch capabilities within the alliance, ensuring readiness for future launch needs.
wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_40
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-03-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_40

Lee Anderson:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what steps he is taking to support veterans in (a) the UK and (b) Ashfield constituency. \p Al Carns: This is a Government of service that will always stand up for those who serve our country, no matter which community they are based in. I am working across Government and with civil society to ensure veterans, including those in Ashfield, get access to the health, housing, employment and other support they need.

In England Op RESTORE provides specialist care to veterans who have physical health problems, and Op COURAGE, a mental health specialist service helps veterans and their families. Over 1000 veterans have used Op RESTORE to date.

Housing support is available across the United Kingdom via Op FORTITUDE, a single referral pathway to connect veterans with help and support. This system provides housing guidance and assistance to veterans experiencing or at risk of homelessness. Veterans can also access a range of tailored employment support, including the Career Transition Partnership, which is the initial point of provision for those leaving military Service in search of new job opportunities, and via Op ASCEND, the employment pathway for veterans.
wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_41
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-03-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_41

Nadia Whittome:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what steps he is taking to help reduce the time it takes for (a) Army and (b) RAF applicants to complete the recruitment process. \p Luke Pollard: This Government inherited a recruitment crisis, with targets being missed every year for the past 14 years and is taking decisive action to get recruitment back on track. This has included the largest pay rise to personnel in decades and scrapping 100 outdated policies that slow recruitment down.

I refer the hon. Member to the answer given to Question 34507 to the hon. Member for Mid Derbyshire (Jonathan Davies).

Armed Forces: Recruitment (docx, 15.2KB)
wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_42
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-03-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_42

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how much and what proportion of the defence budget is allocated to the Royal Marines, excluding Commando-trained Army sub-units. \p Luke Pollard: I hope the hon. Member will understand that it is not possible to split out costs that relate solely to the Royal Marines due to the interoperability of units, equipment and mixed use of training facilities.
wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_43
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-03-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_43

James Cartlidge:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how many 155mm artillery shells have been (a) lost or (b) stolen from his Department’s facilities since 5 July 2024. \p Luke Pollard: The security of Ordnance, Munitions and Explosives (OME) is taken very seriously within the Ministry of Defence, and we have robust procedures in place to deter, detect and prevent loss and theft. All losses and thefts of OME are fully and rigorously investigated.

A search has been undertaken against the Defence Incident Management Database (DIMDb) which is the single repository for all security incident data for Defence. No incidents have been raised for the loss or theft of either 30mm canon rounds or 155mm artillery shells within the timeframe requested.
wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_44
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-03-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_44

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what vehicles are held at MOD Ashchurch; and what their readiness state is. \p Maria Eagle: MOD Ashchurch holds elements of the Army's stored operational fleet and stored equipment (sustainment) fleet. These are comprised of many vehicle types and are held at varying readiness levels.
wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_45
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-03-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_45

James Cartlidge:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, pursuant to the Answer of 17 March 2025 to Question 37236 on Fleet Solid Support Ships: Procurement, whether that answer should refer to Multi Role Support Ships. \p Maria Eagle: The answer given to the hon. Member is correct. The Multi Role Support Ship has been renamed the Multi Role Strike Ship (MRSS). MRSS will be a Royal Navy crewed warship with a combat system, self-defence and offensive capabilities. The amended name better reflects the platform’s function and does not indicate any change of requirement.
wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_46
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-03-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_46

James Cartlidge:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what steps he is taking to increase UK sovereign capability in the defence space sector. \p Maria Eagle: The Ministry of Defence is supporting the Government's ambition to strengthen the UK's space sector. Through major investments from Defence, including £1.5 billion over 10 years in Defence space technologies and £5 billion over a similar period in satellite communications through the SKYNET programme, we have supported the development of technology and economic growth opportunities for the sector. Initiatives like ISTARI, a satellite constellation for Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance, will boost operational independence using unique technology developed in the UK. Collaboration with industry, academia, and Government is ongoing to ensure the necessary infrastructure, skilled personnel, satellites, ground stations and operators are in place for sovereign capability.
wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_47
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-03-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_47

Dr Neil Hudson:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of the increase to employer National Insurance contributions on the defence industry. \p Maria Eagle: As individual suppliers and contractors will manage the changes to Employer National Insurance Contributions differently, it would be extremely difficult for the Department to estimate the impact this will have on the defence industry.
wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_49
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-03-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_49

Edward Morello:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether his Department has conducted a feasibility study on increasing domestic production of critical weapon systems. \p Maria Eagle: The Strategic Defence Review will determine the roles and capabilities required by UK Defence to meet the challenges and threats of the twenty-first century. The Prime Minister’s February announcement that spending on defence will increase to 2.5% of GDP from April 2027 reflects ongoing global instability.

This increased spending will sustain the UK’s globally competitive defence industry, supporting highly skilled jobs and apprenticeships across the whole of the UK. The Defence Industrial Strategy will also review consideration of the sovereign capability and capacity required in the UK.

An example of early action against our security and economic priorities is the £1.6 billion deal to supply thousands of advanced air defence missiles to Ukraine. The deal will support 700 existing jobs at Thales in Belfast, will see production of lightweight-multirole missiles at Thales’s factory treble and will also benefit companies in the Thales Supply Chain across the UK.
wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_50
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-03-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_50

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, pursuant to the Answer of 11 March 2025 to Question 36209, what the difference in attenuation across the frequency bands is between the (a) Peltor ComTac XP/XPI and (b) General Service Peltor Ear Muff. \p Maria Eagle: The performance of the ComTac XP/XPI and the General Service Peltor Ear Muff is as follows:  ComTac XP/XPI

Frequency (Hz)

125

250

500

1000

2000

4000

8000

Mean attenuation (dB)

11.5

17.9

27.8

30.0

32.1

36.2

40.3

Std deviation (dB)

2.5

2.7

1.8

2.3

3.0

2.0

3.1

Assumed Protection Value (dB)

9.0

15.3

25.9

27.7

29.1

34.2

37.2

SNR=28 db H=31 db M=25 db L=16 db

General Service Peltor Ear Muff

Frequency (Hz)

125

250

500

1000

2000

4000

8000

Mean attenuation (dB)

16.2

17.0

26.4

33.5

37.1

39.1

34.3

Std deviation (dB)

4.1

2.7

2.9

4.6

2.8

3.6

4.7

Assumed Protection Value (dB)

12.1

14.3

23.5

28.9

34.3

35.5

29.6

SNR=28 db H=33 db M=25 db L=18 db

SNR=Single Number Rating, H=High Frequency Attenuation Value, M=Medium Frequency Attenuation Value and L=Low Frequency Attenuation Value.
wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_51
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-03-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_51

Ian Roome:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what steps his Department is taking to ensure that equipment used by the armed forces is interoperable with that of NATO allies. \p Maria Eagle: The Ministry of Defence takes a number of steps to ensure our equipment is interoperable with NATO allies. These include leading on the development, ratification, and implementation of NATO standards; participation in joint exercises and training such as Formidable Shield; and promoting and encouraging allies to jointly procure and integrate capabilities, including through the UK-led NATO Multinational Procurement Initiatives and DIAMOND. We are also working with allies and industry to ensure the implementation of NATO’s Defence Production Action Plan, which places strong emphasis on the need to ensure the interoperability of existing and future military capabilities.
wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_52
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-03-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_52

Blake Stephenson:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, if he will make an assessment of the potential impact of changes to employers’ National Insurance contributions on the armed forces. \p Maria Eagle: I refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave on 5 February 2025 to Question 27805 to the hon. Member for Great Yarmouth (Rupert Lowe).

Ministry of Defence: Employers' Contributions (docx, 28.8KB)
wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_53
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-03-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_53

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, when he plans to purchase the second tranche of F-35B jets. \p Maria Eagle: To provide the UK with the most relevant and capable Combat Aircraft force, the Ministry of Defence continually reviews the expected threat and the ability of our forces to counter it. Any further purchases would be set out in the usual way.
wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_54
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-03-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_54

James Cartlidge:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what steps he is taking to increase the retention of engineers in the (a) Royal Navy, (b) British Army and (c) Royal Air Force. \p Luke Pollard: I refer the hon. Member to the answer given by my hon. Friend the Minister for Veterans and People (Alistair Carns) on 13 January 2025 to Question 21528 to the right hon. Member for Gosport (Dame Caroline Dinenage).

Armed Forces: Labour Turnover (docx, 16.6KB)
wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_55
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-03-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_55

Fred Thomas:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what progress his Department has made on replacing enhanced combat body armour for all deployed armed forces personnel. \p Maria Eagle: The safety of personnel remains the Ministry of Defence’s top priority and we are taking all necessary steps to ensure the safety of our forces and maintain operational readiness. Where it is appropriate, alternative body armour plates have been issued to those on high-threat deployments.

Work continues, at pace, to test and ensure the safety of sufficient Enhanced Combat Body Armour (ECBA) plates. To date 30% of the required number of ECBA plates have been scanned and are in the process of being distributed back to units. This is being prioritised based on operational requirements. It is anticipated that the most impacted users will receive tested ECBA plates by the end of this month.

The Tactical Ballistic Plate programme, which will replace both Osprey body armour and ECBA plates, is expected to deliver from 2027.
wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_56
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-03-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_56

Mr Calvin Bailey:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what progress his Department has made on replacing enhanced combat body armour for frontline troops. \p Maria Eagle: The safety of personnel remains the Ministry of Defence’s top priority and we are taking all necessary steps to ensure the safety of our forces and maintain operational readiness. Where it is appropriate, alternative body armour plates have been issued to those on high-threat deployments.

Work continues, at pace, to test and ensure the safety of sufficient Enhanced Combat Body Armour (ECBA) plates. To date 30% of the required number of ECBA plates have been scanned and are in the process of being distributed back to units. This is being prioritised based on operational requirements. It is anticipated that the most impacted users will receive tested ECBA plates by the end of this month.

The Tactical Ballistic Plate programme, which will replace both Osprey body armour and ECBA plates, is expected to deliver from 2027.
wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_57
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-03-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_57

Helen Maguire:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how many and what proportion of army recruits participating in the long course at the Army Foundation College left the army before completing the course in 2024. \p Al Carns: Of the 707 Junior Entry trainees that were due to complete training in 2024 as a result of starting the long course at the Army Foundation College in 2023, 198 left and discharged from training prior to completing the course. This equated to 28% of the total discharging from the course prior to completion.

The main reason for early discharge was individuals exercising their “Discharge As Of Right”, i.e. voluntary discharge. An average of 167 personnel discharged voluntarily between 2013 and 2023.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-03-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_58

James Cartlidge:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether his Department plans to extend the Army EATS programme to other services. \p Al Carns: Responding to unequivocal feedback about the standard of dining in Defence, and the direct implications for morale, operational effectiveness, recruitment and retention, the Ministry of Defence has taken action to improve Defence catering services. The Defence Catering Strategy (DCS) was approved in 2023 and implementation began in May 2024. The DCS was built from the conclusions drawn from the Delivering Defence Dining Quality Review, (led by the Institute of Naval Medicine, on behalf of all three Services and delivered in 2022), and the Army’s Exploring the Appetite of Today’s Soldiers pilot (2023) and considers the recommendations made in the Haythornthwaite Review of UK Armed Forces Incentivisation (2023).

Implementing the DCS will involve further trialling of changes and regularly reviewing and adjusting provision. This will take place in single Service and joint establishments including, for example, a series of Improved Catering Experience trials at Royal Air Force units considering enhanced opening hours, technology supported access to the dining offer and the dining environment.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-03-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_59

Mr Peter Bedford:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what discussions his Department has had with the Department for Education on promoting careers in the armed forces in (a) schools and (b) other educational settings. \p Al Carns: I refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave him on 25 November 2024, to Question 14894.

Armed Forces: Young People (docx, 15.3KB)
wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_60
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-03-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_60

James Cartlidge:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, if he plans to have discussions with local government on the implementation of the Armed Forces Covenant. \p Al Carns: The Ministry of Defence’s Covenant Team has utilised its established local Government engagement structures to inform proposals for the Armed Forces Covenant Duty extension. Officials have undertaken an extensive research and engagement programme, including hosting roundtable discussions and other workshops with more than 150 stakeholders, including local Government organisations.
wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_61
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-03-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_61

Grahame Morris:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what information his Department holds on career progression for non-UK personnel by nationality. \p Al Carns: I refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave on 13 March 2025 to Question 35903 to the hon. Member for Newcastle-under-Lyme (Mr Jogee).

Armed Forces: Career Development (docx, 29.1KB)
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-03-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_63

James Cartlidge:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, pursuant to the Answer of 6 March 2025 to Question 33524 on Strategic Defence Review, what the cost envelope will for the Strategic Defence Review. \p Luke Pollard: The Prime Minister has confirmed plans to increase spending on defence to 2.5% of GDP by 2027 and set an ambition to spend 3% of GDP on defence in the next parliament.

The Strategic Defence Review is looking at the threats we face and the capabilities we need, within the funding available.
wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_64
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-03-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_64

Ms Polly Billington:To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, whether she has had discussions with the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs on the potential implications of the development of the Land Use Framework for the National Planning Policy Framework. \p Matthew Pennycook: The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government has indicated that it will not be possible to answer this question within the usual time period. An answer is being prepared and will be provided as soon as it is available.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-03-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_65

Ms Polly Billington:To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, whether she has had discussions with the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs on the potential implications of the development of the Land Use Framework for the Planning and Infrastructure Bill. \p Matthew Pennycook: The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government has indicated that it will not be possible to answer this question within the usual time period. An answer is being prepared and will be provided as soon as it is available.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-03-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_66

Rachel Blake:To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, whether she plans to (a) lower the threshold for right to manage applications and (b) increase the maximum proportion of commercial property permissible for right to manage applications to occur. \p Matthew Pennycook: The government has commenced the Right to Manage measures in the Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act 2024. They came into effect on 3 March 2025.

These changes implement the Law Commission recommendation to increase the non-residential floorspace limit from 25 to 50 per cent for Right to Manage claims. This means that more leaseholders in mixed-use buildings will qualify for the right to manage, gaining control over the management of their building. Further changes mean that leaseholders making right to manage claims will no longer have to pay their freeholder’s process costs for that claim.

Over the course of this Parliament, the government will enact remaining Law Commission recommendations relating to the Right to Manage. We do not plan to lower the participation requirement or further increase the non-residential limit for the Right to Manage at this time but will continue to evaluate how the Right to Manage operates following the recent changes.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-03-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_67

Lisa Smart:To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, whether her Department plans to (a) issue guidance and (b) strengthen regulations to ensure that landlords provide (i) transparent and (ii) fair billing when reselling utilities to tenants. \p Matthew Pennycook: Measures are already in place to protect tenants from landlords passing on inflated utility bills.

Where tenants pay their landlord for their water, rather than paying a water company directly, they are protected by Ofwat’s guidelines on water resale. This means that a reseller cannot profit from selling water and sewerage to its purchasers beyond a small admin fee of £5 a year for an unmetered bill and £10 a year for a metered one.

Similarly, Ofgem’s Maximum Resale Price Guidance protects tenants from being charged inflated gas and electricity costs by their landlord. It sets a maximum price that can be charged for gas and electricity which has already been bought from an authorised supplier. The current maximum resale price is set at the same price as paid by the person reselling, including any discounts.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-03-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_68

Jim Shannon:To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, if she will make an assessment of the potential implications for her policies of the damage cause by Storm Eowyn to housing. \p Matthew Pennycook: The revised National Planning Policy Framework published on 12 December 2024 sets out that the planning system should take full account of all climate impacts, including storm and flood risk. Planning should help to ensure that development minimises vulnerability and improves resilience to the effects of climate change.

The Framework sets out overarching policy on flood risk from all sources. It states that inappropriate development in areas at risk of flooding, whether an existing or a potential future risk, should be avoided. Where no alternative sites are available, permission should only be granted where it can be demonstrated that it will be safe for its lifetime taking account of the vulnerability of its users, without increasing flood risk elsewhere, and, where possible, will reduce flood risk overall.
wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_69
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-03-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_69

Manuela Perteghella:To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, if she will take steps to help tackle unregulated service charges in freehold developments. \p Matthew Pennycook: I refer the hon. Member to the Written Ministerial Statement made on 21 November 2024 (HCWS244).
wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_70
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-03-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_70

Kevin Hollinrake:To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, whether (a) long-term vacant and (b) derelict homes returned to use count towards local housing targets. \p Matthew Pennycook: I refer the hon. Member to the government response to the proposed reforms to the National Planning Policy Framework and other changes to the planning system consultation (Question 15) which can be found on gov.uk here.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-03-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_71

Ms Polly Billington:To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, whether she has had discussions with the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero on the potential implications of the development of the Strategic Spatial Energy Plan for the Planning and Infrastructure Bill. \p Matthew Pennycook: Ministers in the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) and the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) regularly engage with each other to deliver the government’s priorities. Our departments will continue to work together to consider the interactions between the Planning and Infrastructure Bill and the Strategic Spatial Energy Plan.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-03-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_72

Kevin Hollinrake:To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, pursuant to the Answer of 19 February 2025 to Question 30633 on Democracy and Elections, if she will consult with political parties. \p Rushanara Ali: The government is currently in the process of consulting with various stakeholders, ahead of setting out our approach to elections and electoral reform for this Parliament.
wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_73
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-03-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_73

Blake Stephenson:To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, if she will have discussions with the Boundary Commission on the impact of reducing the voting age to 16 on electoral equality at the next general election. \p Rushanara Ali: Drawing electoral boundaries is the responsibility of the independent parliamentary and local boundary commissions.

When they next conduct their reviews, they will update boundaries where necessary to reflect any changes in the electorate that have occurred since their last review.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-03-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-03-20 conversation_74

Lisa Smart:To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, whether her Department has made an assessment of the potential impact of developers (a) failing to rectify defects within the statutory period and (b) those defects being excluded from warranty coverage on the finances of homeowners. \p Alex Norris: The Building Safety Act ensures that those who built defective buildings take responsibility for remedying them.

The Building Safety Act extended the limitation period under section 1 of the Defective Premises Act 1972, which imposes a duty on a person providing a dwelling to see that the dwelling is fit for habitation from 6 to 30 years retrospectively and from 6 to 15 years prospectively.

The Building Safety Act also includes a robust package of measures designed to ensure that those responsible for relevant defects in relevant buildings fix them. Where remediation is needed and not progressing due to the building owner’s inaction, remediation orders can be issued to compel a building owner to fix their building.

Regarding the costs of inaction, the Building Safety Act also includes remediation contribution orders, new tools that allow interested persons, including leaseholders, to apply to the First-tier Tribunal for an order requiring building owners to pay to fix unsafe buildings. A remediation contribution order can be used to require a landlord (or other specified body corporate or partnership) to make payments for the purpose of meeting costs already incurred (or to be incurred) in remedying relevant defects (or specified relevant defects) relating to the relevant building.