theodi/ndl-core-corpus huggingface dataset:
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_45
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_45

Mr Mark Francois:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to Article 9(1) of the document entitled UK/Mauritius: Agreement concerning the Chagos Archipelago including Diego Garcia (CS Mauritius No.1/2025), how he will exercise (a) prescriptive and (b) adjudicative jurisdiction over Diego Garcia as defined in Article 19 of the Agreement to ensure operational continuity. \p Luke Pollard: The prescriptive enforcement and adjudicative jurisdiction afforded to the United Kingdom under the agreement enables the UK to write, enforce, and adjudicate laws applicable on Diego Garcia. The detail of His Majesty’s Government's approach will be set out in implementing legislation.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_46
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_46

Mr Mark Francois:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what estimate he has made of the cost of the public purse of contributing to the Government of Mauritius’s maritime security including (a) training and (b) equipment over the next ten years. \p Luke Pollard: As set out in the new UK-Mauritius Strategic Partnership Framework, Mauritius and the United Kingdom will cooperate on matters relating to maritime security. Further engagement on the details of this cooperation with Mauritius is ongoing. Our contribution will focus on providing training and building institutional partnerships which will contribute to preserving the safety, security, stability and prosperity of the Indian Ocean region and will support the future operation of the Base on Diego Garcia.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_47
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_47

Mr Andrew Snowden:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to figure 4 on page 52 of the Strategic Defence Review, published on 2 June 2025, whether he considered including BAE Systems in Wharton in Fylde constituency in that map of the nationwide defence industry. \p Maria Eagle: Figure 4 is an indicative map of the representation of the defence industry across the United Kingdom, intended to highlight a range of companies and organisations, equipment and technologies, and regional presence. The final examples of industrial and research sites were drawn from a long list of sites, including in Lancashire.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_48
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_48

Dave Doogan:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, if he will make an assessment of the potential merits of releasing documents relating to the 1994 RAF Chinook crash on the Mull of Kintyre early. \p Al Carns: The early release of the closed records held at The National Archives would breach those individuals’ data protection rights as they contain personal information relating to third party individuals. However, as part of the Ministry of Defence’s business as usual activity to renew the Retention Instrument associated with these closed records, an assessment of the potential merit of removing the 100-year closure status is due to take place in 2029.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_49
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_49

Dave Doogan:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, which military accommodation sites are in most urgent need of repair. \p Al Carns: The Ministry of Defence is currently undertaking an extensive review of its entire military accommodation portfolio, including how the Department will make best use of the properties that have been reacquired from Annington, and which homes and locations can most benefit from investment.

The Defence Housing Strategy, to be published later this year, will set out wider plans to improve the standard of Service family homes. The sites that will be refurbished are being worked through carefully, with the ambition to fairly make improvements across the devolved nations within the UK. It is too early to say where funding will be spent.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_50
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_50

Mike Wood:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether (a) appointments to the Armed Forces Commissioner will be included in the Public Bodies Order in Council and (b) the chair appointment will be classified as a significant appointment. \p Al Carns: The Armed Forces Commissioner Bill is in the final stages of its Parliamentary passage. Once the Bill achieves Royal Assent we will place the Armed Forces Commissioner on the Public Appointments Order in Council (subject to the necessary approvals) and therefore subject, in principle, to the Governance Code for Public Appointments. It is proposed that this appointment will be treated as a ‘significant’ appointment.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_51
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_51

Dr Simon Opher:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether he has made an assessment of the potential merits of establishing a compensation scheme for veterans who have experienced ill health as a result of exposure to radiation while on active service. \p Al Carns: Veterans, including those who may have been exposed to radiation while on active service, who believe they have suffered ill health due to Service already have the right to apply for no-fault compensation under the War Pensions Scheme or the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme. There are, therefore, no plans to introduce a discreet compensation scheme for such individuals.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_52
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_52

Dr Simon Opher:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what steps he is taking to help support (a) veterans and (b) their families who have experienced ill health as a result of exposure to radiation while on active service. \p Al Carns: This Government is deeply grateful to all those who participated in the UK nuclear testing programme. We recognise their Service and the huge contribution they have made to the UK's security.

Nuclear test veterans who believe they have suffered ill health due to service have the existing and long standing right to apply for no-fault compensation under the War Pensions Scheme.

I continue to meet regularly with nuclear test veterans and their families, as well as Parliamentarians and organisations that represent them, to discuss a range of topics relating to their experiences and issues.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_53
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_53

Graeme Downie:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, if he will make an assessment of the potential implications for his policies on support for veterans in the UK of the support provided to military veterans living in South Africa. \p Al Carns: This Government continues to work to deepen our relations with our international partners, including on issues relating to veterans.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_54
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_54

Blake Stephenson:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, if he will make an assessment of the potential impact of closing RAF bases and using the land for housebuilding on national security. \p Al Carns: The Royal Air Force would not recommend the disposal of any of its bases which were required for national security purposes. All Ministry of Defence sites identified for disposal are published on the disposal database on Defence Estate Optimisation (DEO) Portfolio - GOV.UK a in accordance with Government guidelines.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_55
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_55

Lewis Cocking:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of diversity, equality and inclusion policies on recruitment to the armed forces. \p Al Carns: The recruitment and retention of talented personnel to the Armed Forces is mission critical. We must draw from the broadest diversity of thought, skills, and background to ensure we continue to meet the threats we face and safeguard the security, stability, and prosperity of our nation. To do this, we are fostering an inclusive environment, enabling everyone, irrespective of background, to deliver our Defence outputs. Without fostering such an environment, we risk undermining our ability to attract people with valuable contributions to make. The Ministry of Defence is committed to fostering an inclusive environment to ensure that all can thrive when called upon in the most challenging warfighting scenarios.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_56
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_56

Sarah Bool:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what steps his Department is taking to support veterans living in rural communities. \p Al Carns: This Government is committed to improving services for veterans wherever they live, including those who live in rural communities. We recently announced VALOUR, a new commitment to establish the first-ever UK-wide approach to veteran support, to ensure easier access to essential care and support for veterans across the UK.

This regional approach, based on a network of VALOUR support centres, together with regional field officers, will ensure that services are designed to meet the needs of their local communities.

Further details on VALOUR will be announced in due course and more information can be found at the following link https://www.gov.uk/guidance/valour-information-and-next-steps
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_57
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_57

Ian Roome:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment his Department has made of the effectiveness of the processes put in place for the spouses of armed forces personnel to apply for (a) statutory maternity pay and (b) maternity allowance. \p Al Carns: Defence continues to recognise the important role that the families of UK Armed Forces personnel play in supporting their Serving person; life in the Armed Forces can be highly rewarding, but it can also make high demands of our service people. These demands can place a strain on the service family as they juggle the requirements of the service, the wants of the service person and the needs of the service family; but the support of a strong family unit can be the counterweight that every service person needs if they are to achieve a balance.

This is why we are developing increasingly family friendly policies to ensure that the Armed Forces in an environment that is an attractive proposition to existing as well as new and diverse families.

In 2025, Defence launched the Families Hub to help families navigate Service life. More information can be found at the following link: https://discovermybenefits.mod.gov.uk/families/

For Servicewomen, the Armed Forces’ policy and process for maternity leave and pay, known as the Armed Forces’ Occupational Maternity Scheme (AFOMS), is set out in JSP 760, Tri-Service Regulations for Leave and Other Types of Absence. Chapter 24 of JSP 760 sets out entitlement to pay, options on length of leave, and the actions required by pregnant Servicewomen and their commanding officers following confirmation of pregnancy. JSP 760, along with all related electronic application forms, is reviewed and updated frequently, with the latest version always internally accessible to all Service personnel on DefNet, the Ministry of Defence intranet, or from Unit HR staff.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_58
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_58

Liz Jarvis:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what is the daily messing rate for a soldier in the British army in each quarter in each of the past five years \p Al Carns: The Daily Messing Rate (DMR) differs across our overseas bases and the multiple Operations and Exercises carried out across the globe each year.

The table below sets out the DMR rates for each quarter of the last five years in the UK, for Service personnel, noting the differences in kcal requirements from May 2024;

kcal requirements

Quarter

3000 kcal

4000 kcal

5000 kcal

20/21 Q1 (Apr-Jun 20)

£3.58

£4.14

£6.39

20/21 Q2 (Jul-Sep 20)

£3.62

£4.17

£6.41

20/21 Q3 (Oct-Dec 20)

£3.63

£4.19

£6.43

20/21 Q4 (Jan-Mar 21)

£3.63

£4.19

£6.43

21/22 Q1 (Apr-Jun 21)

£3.64

£4.21

£6.45

21/22 Q2 (Jul-Sep 21)

£3.66

£4.22

£6.47

21/22 Q3 (Oct-Dec 21)

£3.63

£4.11

£6.06

21/22 Q4 (Jan-Mar 22)

£3.63

£4.11

£6.06

22/23 Q1 (Apr-Jun 22)

£3.69

£4.18

£6.13

22/23 Q2 (Jul-Sep 22)

£3.62

£4.12

£6.07

22/23 Q3 (Oct-Dec 22)

£3.62

£4.12

£6.07

22/23 Q4 (Jan-Mar 23)

£3.62

£4.12

£6.07

23/24 Q1 (Apr-Jun 23)

£3.90

£4.52

£6.47

23/24 Q2 (Jul-Sep 23)

£5.19

£6.01

£8.01

23/24 Q3 (Oct-Dec 23)

£5.28

£6.11

£8.17

23/24 Q4 (Jan-Mar 24)

£5.22

£6.05

£8.05

24/25 Q1 (Apr 24 only)

£5.22

£6.05

£8.05

Note; Defence Catering Strategy Implemented from 1 May 24 (Revised kcal requirement and DMR calculation method).

Quarter

2900 kcal

3600 kcal

5000 kcal

24/25 Q1 continued (May-Jun 24 only)

£5.64

£6.10

£8.56

24/25 Q2 (Jul-Sep 24)

£5.64

£6.11

£8.59

24/25 Q3 (Oct-Dec 24)

£5.60

£6.05

£8.45

24/25 Q4 (Jan-Mar 25)

£5.65

£6.12

£8.88

Current (Apr-Jun 25)

£5.77

£6.24

£8.96
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_59
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_59

Fabian Hamilton:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how many applications his Department had (a) received and (b) paid for the LGBT Financial Recognition Scheme on 29 May 2025; and what steps he is taking to decrease the time taken to make those payments. \p Al Carns: The LGBT Financial Recognition Scheme launched in December 2024, and as of 2 June 2025, the Scheme had received 1,054 applications, and 39 applicants had received their payment.

The first payments were made within 16 weeks of the Scheme opening and payments are continuing to be made. The Independent Panel and Appeals Board Members were both recruited on 13 May 2025, and the Independent Panel had their first sitting on 21 May 2025.

We are mindful of the need for timeliness, although it is a complex process, and the Scheme needs to be delivered effectively and correctly. The Scheme continues to make progress with applications, with process capacity expected to increase in the coming months. Priority has been given to applicants with life limiting health conditions and those aged 80 and over. Reflecting our focus on the most vulnerable veterans without delay.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_60
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_60

Mark Pritchard:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether he plans to introduce a civilian home guard as part of the armed forces reserve capabilities. \p Al Carns: I am grateful for the contribution of our Reserve Forces who provide the UK with the ability to meet the threats we face at home and overseas, with the scale, skills, agility and connection to society that it needs, in a cost-effective way. Home Defence resilience is one of the key themes from the Strategic Defence Review (SDR) Report released on 2 Jun 2025.

The Ministry of Defence will now work with other relevant Government Departments to consider the implementation of the recommendations within the SDR, which includes Home Defence and Critical National Infrastructure. The potential role of Armed Forces Reserves capabilities will be considered as part of this.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_61
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_61

Brian Leishman:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether his Department has (a) lost, (b) deleted and (c) otherwise destroyed any surveillance footage taken by Royal Air Force planes over Gaza since December 2023. \p Luke Pollard: I refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave to Question 57027, and reiterate that I cannot comment on detailed intelligence matters nor disclose details of Ministry of Defence internal policies for the storage and retention of operational intelligence.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_62
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_62

Mr Mark Francois:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to paragraph 7 of Annex 1 of the document entitled UK/Mauritius: Agreement concerning the Chagos Archipelago including Diego Garcia (CS Mauritius No.1/2025), what mechanism his Department will use to notify the Government of Mauritius of ongoing activities in the Chagos Archipelago as defined in paragraph 11(b) of the Agreement that risk conflicting with the long-term, secure and effective operation of Naval Support Facility Diego Garcia. \p Luke Pollard: A Joint Commission will oversee the implementation of the treaty and will discuss issues relating to the effective operation of the base on Diego Garcia.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_63
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_63

Mr Mark Francois:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to paragraph 3(a) of Annex 1 of the document entitled UK/Mauritius: Agreement concerning the Chagos Archipelago including Diego Garcia (CS Mauritius No.1/2025), what steps his Department plans to take to ensure United Kingdom vessels have unrestricted undersea access in the Chagos Archipelago beyond Diego Garcia as defined in paragraph 11(b) of Annex 1. \p Luke Pollard: In respect of the Chagos Archipelago beyond Diego Garcia, vessels and aircraft of the United Kingdom and the United States of America shall have unrestricted rights of overflight, navigation and undersea access, as at present.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_64
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_64

Mr Mark Francois:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to paragraph 2 of Article 10 of the document entitled UK/Mauritius: Agreement concerning the Chagos Archipelago including Diego Garcia (CS Mauritius No.1/2025), how will his Department provide reasons; and what safeguards he is putting in place to ensure compliance with applicable laws. \p Luke Pollard: Future contracts falling under Article 10 of the document entitled UK/Mauritius: Agreement concerning the Chagos Archipelago including Diego Garcia (CS Mauritius No.1/2025) shall be subject to normal scrutiny and award processes. The provision of reasons to the Government of Mauritius for the non-award of a contract shall be on diplomatic channels.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_65
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_65

Mr Mark Francois:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to paragraph 1(b)(viii) of Annex 1 of the document entitled UK/Mauritius: Agreement concerning the Chagos Archipelago including Diego Garcia (CS Mauritius No.1/2025), what notification protocols his Department will establish for (a) non-United Kingdom and (b) non-United States aircraft accessing Diego Garcia as defined in Article 19 of the Agreement. \p Luke Pollard: Aircraft accessing Diego Garcia will maintain standard notification practices for flight information regions, which exist in the Indian Ocean flight information zone and other international flight information zones.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_66
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_66

Mr Mark Francois:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to paragraph 1(v) of Annex 1 of the document entitled UK/Mauritius: Agreement concerning the Chagos Archipelago including Diego Garcia (CS Mauritius No.1/2025), whether the (a) installation and (b) repair of communication systems in Diego Garcia as defined by Article 19 of the Agreement are subject to oversight by the Government of Mauritius. \p Luke Pollard: Paragraph 1(b)(v) of Annex 1 of the treaty is clear that the UK has unrestricted ability to authorise the installation, operation and repair of new and existing communication systems and electronic systems and associated cables.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_67
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_67

Mr Mark Francois:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to paragraph 8(d) of Annex 2 of the document entitled UK/Mauritius: Agreement concerning the Chagos Archipelago including Diego Garcia (CS Mauritius No.1/2025), what steps his Department plans to take to provide assistance to the Government of Mauritius in the (a) arrest in and (b) transfer of prisoners from Diego Garcia as defined in Article 19 of the Agreement. \p Luke Pollard: The UK will support the exercise of jurisdiction of Mauritius on Diego Garcia over (i) Mauritian nationals who are not members of UK Armed Forces or US personnel, and (ii) all persons not connected to the operation of the Base. This ensures that Mauritius has jurisdiction over any future illegal migration to the island, closing off a dangerous and costly immigration route to the UK.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_68
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_68

Mr Mark Francois:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to paragraph 6(b) of Annex 1 of the document entitled UK/Mauritius: Agreement concerning the Chagos Archipelago including Diego Garcia (CS Mauritius No.1/2025), what steps he plans to take to ensure that the UK's submission does not compromise the Naval Support Facility Diego Garcia’s operations. \p Luke Pollard: The UK is not obligated under the treaty to provide any operationally sensitive detail to Mauritius. Any submissions made under Annex 1 paragraph 6 will undergo assessment by the UK in consultation with the US to ensure operations are not compromised.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_69
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_69

Mr Mark Francois:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to paragraph 1(b)(iii) of Annex 1 of the document entitled UK/Mauritius: Agreement concerning the Chagos Archipelago including Diego Garcia (CS Mauritius No.1/2025), what steps he plans to take to ensure the exclusive command and control over military personnel in Diego Garcia as defined in Article 19 of the Agreement. \p Luke Pollard: The UK has full command and control over UK military personnel on Diego Garcia. There are no means for Mauritius to obtain command and control over UK military personnel as a result of the treaty.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_70
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_70

Mr Mark Francois:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to paragraph 3(f) of Annex 1 of the document entitled UK/Mauritius: Agreement concerning the Chagos Archipelago including Diego Garcia (CS Mauritius No.1/2025), what mechanism will be put in place to ensure any joint decision with the Government of Mauritius on the (a) construction and (b) emplacement of any (i) maritime installation, (ii) sensor, (iii) structure and (iv) artificial island does affect Naval Support Facility Diego Garcia operations. \p Luke Pollard: A Joint Commission will oversee implementation of the treaty and will discuss issues relating to the effective operation of the base on Diego Garcia. No joint decision can be taken in the Joint Commission without UK agreement. Additionally, under the Treaty Mauritius commits not to undermine, prejudice or otherwise interfere with the long-term, secure and effective operation of the base.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_71
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_71

Mr Mark Francois:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to paragraph 3(h) of Article 2 of the document entitled UK/Mauritius: Agreement concerning the Chagos Archipelago including Diego Garcia (CS Mauritius No.1/2025), what steps he plans to take to ensure the Government of Mauritius's regulation of the provision of electronic communications services does not impact the communication systems of Naval Support Facility Diego Garcia. \p Luke Pollard: The UK has unrestricted ability to control and manage the electromagnetic spectrum for Diego Garcia and the surrounding 12 nautical miles. Decisions related to the electromagnetic spectrum beyond Diego Garcia will be taken jointly by the UK and Mauritius at the Joint Commission, which is described in Annex 3 of the Treaty. There can be no decisions without UK agreement.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_72
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_72

Mr Mark Francois:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to paragraph 8(a) of Annex 2 of the document entitled UK/Mauritius: Agreement concerning the Chagos Archipelago including Diego Garcia (CS Mauritius No.1/2025), what estimate he has made of the cost to the public purse of providing assistance to the Government of Mauritius in the provision of (a) facilities and (b) amenities for Mauritian law enforcement officials on Diego Garcia as defined in Article 19 of the Agreement over the next ten years. \p Luke Pollard: As per paragraph 10 of Annex 2, the UK and Mauritius will be agreeing separate arrangements and operating procedures as necessary to assist and facilitate the exercise of Mauritian jurisdiction in respect to paragraph 8. There will be no additional facilities on island to enable Mauritian jurisdiction.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_73
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_73

Mr Mark Francois:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to the document entitled UK/Mauritius: Agreement concerning the Chagos Archipelago including Diego Garcia (CS Mauritius No.1/2025), how he will ensure the (a) security and (b) operational continuity of Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organisation monitoring stations on Diego Garcia under Mauritian sovereignty. \p Luke Pollard: The United Kingdom shall continue to be responsible for the administration and facilitation of maintenance of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organisation monitoring stations on Diego Garcia. The arrangements are described in the International Organisations exchange of letters.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_74
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_74

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what the planned (a) in-service date and (b) date of integration with F-35B is for the MBDA Meteor ramjet-powered air-to-air missile. \p Maria Eagle: Integration of the MBDA Meteor ramjet-powered air-to-air missile with F-35B is driven by the US-led Lightning II Joint Programme Office; the estimated current timeline for in-service capability is expected to be early 2030s.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_75
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_75

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how many M134 (DC) Miniguns were held by (a) the British Army, (b) the Royal Navy, excluding the Royal Marines, (c) the Royal Air Force, (d) the Royal Marines, (e) Military Provost Guard Services, (f) Ministry of Defence Police and (g) Cadet Forces, (h) other MoD services and (f) his Department in dry storage on 28 May 2025. \p Maria Eagle: I am withholding this information as its disclosure would, or would be likely to prejudice the capability, effectiveness or security of the Armed Forces.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_76
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_76

Mr Andrew Snowden:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to section 7.4.6 of the Strategic Defence Review 2025, published on 2 June 2025, which aircraft will replace the Typhoon. \p Maria Eagle: The Government is committed to upgrading Typhoons and driving exports of Typhoons abroad. The Strategic Defence Review does not recommend reductions in fast jets for the RAF, but it confirms the Government's commitment to GCAP, to upgrade Typhoons and no reductions in the number of F35sBs and F35As.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_77
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_77

Sarah Bool:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether his Department has made an assessment of whether the pay as you dine scheme in military bases is the optimal approach to meeting the cost of food and drink. \p Maria Eagle: The Defence Catering Strategy (DCS) was built on the comprehensive assessment undertaken through the Delivering Defence Dining Quality (3DQ) Review, led by the Institute of Naval Medicine on behalf of all three Services, and which reported in December 2021. 3DQ made a number of recommendations for changing the dining experience in Defence all of which were incorporated into the DCS.

The first stage of implementation of the DCS began in May 2024 with new menus and a change to our charging approach, namely moving to meals sold at the food cost of each item plus VAT, with Defence continuing to meet the total cost of service provision. The Strategy also aims to improve the dining environment, to vary opening times to suit local needs, and to enhance the dining experience through greater use of technology. Feedback on the new dining offer has largely been positive, including regarding the range and healthiness of choices, and the cost to the individual. This is a constantly evolving offer, with views gathered locally to ensure that the menus, continue to improve.

This activity is taking place within existing arrangements whilst the process of securing the future of Soft Facilities Management contracts is ongoing. The health needs of our personnel will also inform the food elements of those new contracts. We are working to ensure that our people are routinely eating in our facilities and that the menus they choose from offer the balance that they need to be able to perform in their demanding roles.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_78
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_78

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, when the Air Tanker refuelling contract is due to (a) be eligible for renegotiation and (b) expire. \p Maria Eagle: The Voyager Concession Contract is due to expire in March 2035. There is no specific date at which the contract is eligible for renegotiation. Amendments can occur at any point throughout the life of the contract subject to agreement by all parties.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_79
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_79

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment he has made of the potential merits of air-to-air refuelling from the RAF A400 fleet. \p Maria Eagle: Current UK air-to-air refuelling requirements are met by the Voyager fleet. Following the Strategic Defence Review, a range of options to meet future air-to-air refuelling requirements will be considered.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_80
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_80

David Reed:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what steps he plans to take to achieve £6 billion in new efficiencies within the defence budget during this parliament; and what the sources of these will be. \p Maria Eagle: As set out in the SDR, we have identified £6 billion of new savings over the course of this Parliament, through efficiency and productivity savings, civilian workforce changes, structural simplification and contractual efficiencies.

Alongside the Defence Investment Plan later this year, the Ministry of Defence (MOD) will publish a Defence Reform and Efficiency Plan, which will provide further detail on the range of reforms across the MOD which will deliver these efficiencies.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_81
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_81

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what is the out-of-service date of all variants of Land Rover. \p Maria Eagle: The planned Out of Service Date (OSD) for all current variants of the Land Rover fleet is 2030. The British Army’s Land Mobility Programme (LMP) includes a Light Mobility Vehicle (LMV) project that seeks to replace the Land Rover fleet across the Joint Force. Several LMV capability and procurement options are being considered, through early engagement with the market and international partners, to inform which option will be taken forward to a formal assessment phase.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_82
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_82

Callum Anderson:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what steps his Department is taking to ensure that the UK’s involvement in the EU’s defence industrial programmes align with the UK’s strategic defence objectives. \p Maria Eagle: The Strategic Defence Review recognises that international partnerships are crucial for both innovation and collective security. The Security and Defence Partnership with the EU complements our NATO first approach as we continue to support alignment between NATO and the EU.

We are also producing a new Defence Industrial Strategy (DIS), which will allow us to develop a modern defence industrial base that is able to better support our, and our allies', security whilst also helping to drive economic growth. The Defence Industrial Strategy will set out how we will continue to work with key partners, including through the EU, and pursue new industrial ventures to ensure our industry continues to innovate.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_83
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_83

Callum Anderson:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what steps his Department is taking to facilitate the UK defence industry’s access to the EU’s €150 billion defence loan programme, in the context of the UK-EU security and defence partnership. \p Maria Eagle: As this is a critical moment for the security of our continent, we welcome European efforts to increase defence spending, through the ReArm initiative including the EU’s €150 billion loan programme, also known as SAFE (Security Action for Europe).

The UK and the EU have agreed an ambitious new Security and Defence Partnership as part of a wider package of the UK-EU reset. Crucially, the Security and Defence Partnership means the UK now meets the criteria for discussing participation in common procurement under SAFE, which could provide new opportunities for our defence industry. Recognising the important role that the UK’s defence industry plays already for European security, we have set out our ambition to swiftly explore the potential for enhanced cooperation through the proposed SAFE instrument, as soon as the EU’s necessary processes are complete.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_84
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_84

Mark Pritchard:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, if he will bring forward the date by which the UK will spend 2.5 per cent of GDP on Defence. \p Maria Eagle: The Government has made a clear commitment for defence spending to reach 2.5% of GDP by 2027. This is a fully funded increase, the details of which were set out in the Spring Statement.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_85
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_85

Mr Peter Bedford:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether he has made an assessment of the effectiveness of his Department's procurement function. \p Maria Eagle: The Ministry of Defence delivers some of the most complex programmes in Government.

We recognise the need for radical reform of the defence procurement system to reduce waste, speed up decision making, support UK growth and meet the challenges of the twenty-first century. Through our Defence Reforms our new National Armaments Director will ensure our forces have the equipment they need, when they need it.

As set out in the Strategic Defence Review, we will improve delivery through a segmented approach to procurement, tailoring acquisition processes to the type of capability, supplier and risk involved; and introduce service agnostic capability portfolios to increase flexibility and drive pace.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_86
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_86

Dr Scott Arthur:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how many Warrior infantry fighting vehicles (a) his Department has and (b) will be surplus to requirements by 2030; and how many of that he plans to provide to Ukraine. \p Maria Eagle: As at 1 June 2025, there are 359 Warrior vehicles in service.

As the Out of Service date for Warrior is 2027, with all vehicles withdrawn from service by the end of the decade, any that remain held by the Department beyond this will be classed as surplus to requirements.

Plans for Warrior beyond its Out of Service Date are yet to be formally agreed.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_87
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_87

Callum Anderson:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what mechanisms are in place to monitor the progress of joint UK-EU initiatives on space security agreed in the UK-EU Summit Common Understanding. \p Luke Pollard: The UK-EU Security and Defence Partnership provides a framework for cooperation on key issues, including space security. As implementation plans develop, progress will be monitored through structured dialogue and consultation mechanisms. The UK and EU will cooperate on space-related security issues, including through multilateral fora such as the United Nations and within the framework of EU-NATO cooperation. The Partnership will help promote norms, rules, and principles of responsible behaviour in outer space.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_88
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_88

Callum Anderson:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment his Department has made of the potential impact of the UK-EU security and defence partnership on the interoperability of UK armed forces with EU member states. \p Luke Pollard: The UK-EU Security and Defence Partnership aims to support enhanced interoperability in ways that deliver mutual benefit and reinforce the European contribution to NATO. The Partnership will support and complement our commitment to NATO — which remains the cornerstone of Euro-Atlantic security — and to the UK’s strong bilateral defence relationships with both EU member states and third country allies. It strengthens our ability to act jointly where interests align, while preserving the UK’s strategic autonomy and global defence posture.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_89
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_89

Rachael Maskell:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what steps are available to him to call on the Israeli government to leave the F35 global spare parts pool. \p Maria Eagle: All F-35 Foreign Military Sales (FMS) customers, including Israel, are managed directly by the US Government. There is no contractual/programme relationship between the UK Government and the F-35 FMS customers to allow the UK Government to call on nations to leave the F-35 global spares pool.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_90
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_90

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what military training is provided to people recruited into the Cyber Direct Entry programme. \p Luke Pollard: Cyber Direct Entry recruits will receive military training specific to their cyber career pathway. Successful candidates will complete three to five weeks of basic training at either HMS Raleigh or RAF Halton, shorter than the typical 10-week course. This training will be followed by three months of specialist training at the Defence Cyber Academy.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_91
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_91

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what rank structure is followed for people in cyber roles. \p Luke Pollard: The Strategic Defence Review confirmed the need for a new Cyber and Electromagnetic Command that will utilise the existing military rank and civil service grade structure.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_92
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_92

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of the digital targeting web on integration across domains. \p Luke Pollard: The Digital Targeting Web (DTW) is not a single piece of equipment or software. It is the ecosystem that enables the transfer of targeting data through classifications, domains, networks and systems seamlessly on the Digital Backbone. It connects sensors, to deciders to effectors across domains in an automated, secure and scalable approach - allowing defence to not only reuse existing capabilities and in-flight programmes, but to integrate new, innovative and novel software and hardware into the DTW at the pace of relevance.

Integrating existing capability - including weapons systems and tooling used for battlefield decisions – is fundamental, but a key challenge is connecting it. The programme’s focus is on enabling this integration, facilitating data flows, and breaking down data silos. This will be achieved through an iterative, collaborative approach, guided by Defence’s needs, and underpinned by an integration service and dedicated funding pipeline.

Alongside the technical elements of the DTW, it will also address other Defence Line of Development including Doctrine and training.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_93
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_93

Mr Gregory Campbell:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether he plans to make further changes to security arrangements at Army Reserve Centres in Northern Ireland after September 2025. \p Luke Pollard: No further changes are planned to those that have been detailed previously.

Work is underway to begin the transition of sites from armed guarding to physical security measures. On current planning, the first sites will transition during Summer 2025, with all sites set to complete by Summer 2027.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_94
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_94

Bell Ribeiro-Addy:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what steps he is taking to help tackle (a) emerging security challenges from melting of Arctic sea ice and (b) related potential threats to critical infrastructure. \p Luke Pollard: The Strategic Defence Review (SDR) recognises the challenges that climate change poses; in particular, the likelihood that the Arctic will be ice-free each summer by 2040. The UK will continue to work closely with our Allies, including through the UK-led Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF), to maintain access, basing, overflight, and sea lines of communication in the region. Similarly, the SDR highlights an increasing role for Defence in contributing to the protection of its Critical National Infrastructure (CNI) and recommends strengthening Government powers to protect CNI through legislation and exploring options for a ‘new deal’ for the protection of CNI in partnership with private-sector and allied operators. Working with our Allies in this area is also key, and the JEF has already proved its worth having activated a JEF Response Option, known as NORDIC WARDEN, in January to track potential threats to critical undersea infrastructure and monitor the Russian shadow fleet.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_95
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_95

Mr Tanmanjeet Singh Dhesi:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, if he will provide an update on surveillance flights over Gaza in the last month. \p Luke Pollard: Since December 2023 the Ministry of Defence has conducted surveillance flights within the airspace over Israel and Gaza, solely for the purpose of locating hostages.

I am unable to comment further on detailed intelligence matters.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_96
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_96

Lewis Cocking:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether he has considered deploying military assets to assist the Border Force in preventing illegal maritime entry into the UK. \p Luke Pollard: The Home Office is the lead Government Department responsible for border security and migration. It has established the Border Security Command to strengthen global partnerships and enhance the UK’s efforts to investigate, arrest, and prosecute people smugglers profiting from the dangerous movement of people across the channel. This continues to incorporate the lessons identified by Defence when it had primacy for migration operations in the channel, including the procurement and use of task-specific assets.

Defence assets are procured for Defence tasks and are therefore not optimised for the issue the hon. Member raises. These assets play a critical part in preserving UK maritime security through shadowing and monitoring warships transiting the UK Exclusive Economic Zone or territorial waters.
wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_97
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-06-09)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-06-09 conversation_97

Carla Lockhart:To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what recent assessment he has made with Cabinet colleagues of the UK’s capability to respond to (a) hybrid and (b) cyber threats. \p Luke Pollard: The Ministry of Defence works closely with Government partners to monitor, understand and respond to cyber and hybrid threats to the UK from hostile states.

The Strategic Defence Review 2025 underscores the UK's commitment to responding to cyber and hybrid threats, establishing the Cyber and Electromagnetic Command to ensure a coherent and consistent approach to force development, force generation and operations in the domain. We are enhancing integration across Defence and wider Government, as well as with allies, partners, and industry to respond to these threats effectively.