Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether (a) Marine 11 and (b) Marine 12 have been used for ministerial travel by any Department since 5 July 2024.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence)

Marine Helicopter Squadron One (HMX-1) assets, which are responsible for transferring the President and Vice President for the United States, have not been used to transport UK Ministers during the period in question.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, if they will make it their policy to not provide (a) translation and (b) interpretation for speakers of non-UK languages for services provided by their Department.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence)

No, translation and interpretation for a range of languages other than English (‘non-UK’ languages) is, and will continue to be, required to provide a wide variety of services across multiple areas of Defence.

Language service needs and spend are assessed to ensure these services offer good value for money for taxpayers while maintaining high standards of service delivery.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how many units of service family accommodation are located in Doncaster East and the Isle of Axholme constituency.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence)

There are no Service Family Accommodation properties in Doncaster East and the Isle of Axholme constituency.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, pursuant to the Answer of 7 April 2025 to Question 42678 on F-35 Aircraft: Procurement, how many F-35Bs will receive the Block 4 upgrade.

Answered by Maria Eagle - Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)

I can confirm the Department intends to upgrade the UK F-35B Lightning fleet with Block 4 modifications.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what steps he is taking to expand signal jamming practice for armed forces personnel.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence)

The Ministry of Defence is not taking any additional steps to ‘expand’ its ability to enable Armed Forces personnel to practice jamming signals, It is not appropriate to go into details for operational security reasons. I can confirm beyond the that there are extant procedures that exist to enable jamming for testing, training and exercising in the UK.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, if he will make an assessment of the potential merits of placing a legal duty on all Government departments to give due regard to the Armed Forces Covenant in decision-making affecting military families in Wiltshire.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence)

Following guidance from Ministers to “put the Armed Forces Covenant fully into law”, officials are currently developing plans to extend the scope of the Covenant Legal Duty, in line with our manifesto commitment, across a broad range of policy areas.

This broad, and maximalist approach will demonstrate and reinforce the Government’s steadfast commitment to improving the lives of the Armed Forces community and renewing the nation’s contract with those who serve.

Ministry of Defence officials anticipate that plans for the Duty extension will raise awareness of the Covenant, drive better outcomes for the Armed Forces community, including those in Wiltshire, and help mitigate and tackle disadvantage.

Further details will be brought forward in due course.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how many space liaison officers are stationed in the military.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence)

There are two international space liaison officers stationed in UK Space Command.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, if he will have discussions with his US counterpart on the (a) strategic contribution of Red Sea region and (b) the potential merits of retaining the United States Africa Command.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence)

The Secretary of State for Defence has regular engagements with the US Secretary of Defense where they discuss a range of topics including Red Sea security. The UK Ministry of Defence also undertakes frequent engagement with US AFRICOM on a range of issues.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether his Department plans to increase the number of British Army personnel.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence)

I refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave to the hon. Member for North Down (Alex Easton) on 13 May 2025 to Question 50001.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether Mastiff vehicles have been donated to Ukraine (a) before and (b) since 5 July 2024.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence)

Over 240 protected mobility vehicles have been donated to Ukraine since February 2022.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how many Wolfhound vehicles have been donated to Ukraine (a) before 5 July 2024 and (b) since 5 July 2024.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence)

Over 240 protected mobility vehicles have been donated to Ukraine since February 2022.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how many Husky vehicles have been donated to Ukraine (a) before 5 July 2024 and (b) since 5 July 2024.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence)

Over 240 protected mobility vehicles have been donated to Ukraine since February 2022.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether Foxhound vehicles have been donated to Ukraine (a) before and (b) since 5 July 2024.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence)

Over 240 protected mobility vehicles have been donated to Ukraine since February 2022.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, pursuant to the Answer of 12 May 2025 to Question 50261 on Armed Forces: Housing, whether any of the remaining void properties not suitable for habitation are in Huntingdon constituency.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence)

As at 12 May 2025, there are 497 Service Family Accommodation properties in the Huntingdon constituency, of which 19 are void and not suitable for occupation.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what the total operating cost was of the British overseas military base in Qatar in the 2024-25 financial year.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence)

The Ministry of Defence does not have a British Overseas Base in Qatar but we do have forces hosted on the Qatari owned, US-operated Al Udeid Air Base outside Doha.

Indicative operating costs for being based at Al Udeid airbase in financial year 2024-25 are in the region of £3.7 million. The exact cost will be finalised after the publication of the Ministry of Defence Annual Report and Accounts 2024-25.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, for what reason the Royal Air Force stopped airdropping aid to Gaza; whether he has had recent discussions with his Israeli counterpart on this issue; if he will make it his policy to restart airdropping aid to Gaza.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence)

Humanitarian aid should never be contingent on a ceasefire or used as a political tool. On 13 May 2025, along with European partners, the UK convened a UN Security Council meeting to call for Israel to lift its block on aid into Gaza. We will continue to make our views clear, both in public and in private to the Israeli government and work with our partners to achieve an enduring and sustainable end to the hostilities.

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office leads on coordinating the Government’s humanitarian response to deliver lifesaving assistance to the civilian population in Gaza. The Ministry of Defence has provided military support when requested to facilitate the delivery of this assistance, including participating in airdropping aid as part of the Jordanian international coalition in 2024. Currently land routes are the only viable option for delivering aid at scale into Gaza. We remain ready to support as required.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to his Department's letter dated 13 May 2025, reference MC2025/08064, how he decides whether intelligence collected by Royal Air Force surveillance missions over Gaza and shared with Israeli authorities will be used in accordance with international humanitarian law.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence)

Defence activity with Israel, as with any other State, is subject to rigorous processes to ensure that it is compliant with domestic and international law.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what steps his Department is taking to tackle (a) harassment, (b) sexual assault and (c) misconduct against women in the armed forces; and if he will introduce an independent body to handle serious complaints of (i) harassment and (ii) misconduct.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence)

There is no place for harassment or any form of abuse within the Armed Forces – or anywhere within Defence.

Last month the Minister for Veterans and People announced the formation of a new tri-Service complaints unit for the Armed Forces. The new team will be independent of the single Service chain of command to provide individuals with greater confidence and help ensure that the most serious complaints, including bullying, harassment and misconduct, are dealt with quickly.

The Ministry of Defence is also setting up a Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) Taskforce which will be supported by a network of regional VAWG Advisors, trained to offer support on topics including domestic violence and sexual offending. These roles will connect with existing networks of multidisciplinary experts to support Armed Forces personnel, including healthcare providers, social workers, and HR advisors, in particular working hand in glove with the Victim and Witness Care Unit. The VAWG Taskforce will provide an escalation route independent from the military chain of command, directly up to ministerial level if required.

The upcoming Armed Forces Bill will also introduce new measures to ensure the Service Justice System protects victims of the most serious offences, including sexual assault. The Government is also establishing an Armed Forces Commissioner as a new independent champion with the power to investigate issues raised by Service personnel and their families.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what the cost is of the L129A1 Sharpshooter Rifle programme for the Royal Marines; and whether additional costs have been incurred due to the adoption of the 6.5mm Creedmoor calibre.

Answered by Maria Eagle - Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)

The L129A1 is provided to the Royal Marines from the Army, via Defence Equipment and Support, as part of the Lead Command Model. The total cost to Defence was £1.5 million. Additional costs have been incurred for Creedmoor as the transition to this calibre has not commenced yet.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what steps he is taking to increase the number of apprenticeship starts in his Department.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence)

The Armed Forces are the UK’s largest provider of apprenticeships, with over 23,000 personnel enrolled at any time and more than 95% of non-commissioned recruits offered trade-aligned apprenticeships. On average, 7.5% of personnel start an apprenticeship annually, with over 10% actively participating at any time.

In the 2024 Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers list, all three Services ranked in the top five, contributing 16% of all placements. Apprenticeships range from Level 2 (GCSE) to Level 6 (degree), supporting career-long development and professional development.

The Ministry of Defence (MOD) plays a key role in developing new apprenticeship standards through ‘Trailblazer’ groups and collaborates with industry to ensure qualifications are relevant both within Defence and beyond. The MOD also actively promotes apprenticeships through networks like the Apprenticeship Ambassador Network and the 5% Club.

The MOD has implemented several strategies to increase the number of apprenticeships starts among its civilian staff, offering a wide range of apprenticeship schemes ranging from GCSE to graduate level, across various professions and standards. Procurement has been brought in-house to collaborate with training providers. This partnership allows for a broader range of apprenticeship programmes in high-demand areas like Engineering, Digital, and Project Management. These schemes aim to attract individuals seeking to kickstart or advance their careers within the MOD.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment he has made of the value for money of the Defence Fire and Risk Project.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence)

A comprehensive review of the contract was undertaken in autumn 2023 in accordance with Cabinet Office requirements, which found that as a whole, the Defence Fire and Risk Project contract represented satisfactory Value for Money. No further assessment has yet been made by this government.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, pursuant to the Answer of 10 April 2025 to Question 44144 on Armed Forces: Training, what steps he has taken to help improve the OFSTED rating of the Defence Medical Academy.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence)

Following an OFSTED inspection in December 2023, Defence Medical Academy (DMA) have addressed all areas requiring improvement and continue to do so. The steps taken have included establishing a structured process to develop the curriculum, increased coordination, oversight, and assurance of training placements, a higher level of scrutiny on resource management, a focus on welfare and significant cultural changes to improve both the morale of trainees and training personnel.

The Defence Medical Services (Whittington) Site now meets the Defence Minimum Standards for accommodation and is used as an example of best practice owing to the excellent relationships fostered between the site and contractors.

The Defence Medical Academy is also required to undertake an annual assessment of its performance, this was last completed in October 2024. Given the improvements made across all four Ofsted Key Judgement Areas, the Defence Medical Academy is currently assessed as ‘good’.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment his Department has made of the effectiveness of the processes put in place for armed forces personnel to apply for (a) statutory maternity pay and (b) maternity allowance.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence)

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 Service women 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. The latest review was published on DefNet in February 2025 under JSP 760, version 39.5. All updates and revisions are documented in the JSP's version history and record of amendments included with each publication.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, if he will make it his policy to use a proportion of the additional funding for defence to improve (a) accommodation and (b) facilities for (i) service personnel and (ii) their families in Wiltshire.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence)

The Defence Housing Strategy, planned for publication later this year, will set out a roadmap to deliver a generational renewal of military accommodation. The main objective is to raise the minimum standard of Armed Forces housing across the Ministry of Defence estate, including military housing in Wiltshire.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how many defence contracts his Department has awarded since 5 July 2024; and what assessment he has made of the potential impact of the time taken for procurement on the defence industrial base.

Answered by Maria Eagle - Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)

Based on contracts created in the Ministry of Defence Commercial Contracting system there have been 1986 contracts created with a start date more recent than 5 July 2024.

It is widely recognised that there are issues with the Department’s procurement system including that it is inefficient and creates uncertainty and barriers to entry for industry especially SMEs. The Defence Industrial Strategy will radically reform procurement to tackle these inefficiencies, cut waste, reduce red tape, and deliver maximum value for both our Armed Forces and our economy.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether his Department has reviewed the performance of housing maintenance contracts for military service accommodation in Wiltshire.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence)

The Defence Infrastructure Organisation continues to drive for improved performance from the Future Defence Infrastructure Services Accommodation Industry Partners in all regions, including Wiltshire.

Performance is monitored on a monthly basis, including oversight at Chief Executive level, to hold Industry Partners to account.

The performance of housing maintenance contracts for Service Family Accommodation in Wiltshire has not been specifically reviewed since it is part of the contract covering the wider South West accommodation region.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, pursuant to the Answer of 12 May 2025 to Question 50261 on Armed Forces: Housing, what is his timetable for making the 3,049 void properties suitable for habitation.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence)

This Government is committed to reviewing the contract between the nation and those who serve. Improving the housing offer is a key part of this work.

The timetable for making these void properties suitable for habitation is being developed as part of the Defence Housing Strategy, which is due to be published later this year.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether he has had recent discussions with Heckler & Koch to procure (a) MG5s and( b) HK421s.

Answered by Maria Eagle - Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)

The Secretary of State for Defence has not engaged Heckler and Koch on the potential procurement of their MG5 or HK421 machine guns.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to his Department's press release entitled New 2,000 km “deep precision strike” weapon to be developed by UK and Germany as Trinity House Agreement delivers first major milestones, published on 15 May 2025, whether the weapon will be a (a) cruise, (b) ballistic and (c) hypersonic missile.

Answered by Maria Eagle - Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)

UK and Germany are considering several concepts and technologies to address emerging threats and have defined a joint range requirement of over 2,000 km. Specific characteristics, in-service dates and launch platforms are to be confirmed.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to his Department's press release entitled New 2,000 km “deep precision strike” weapon to be developed by UK and Germany as Trinity House Agreement delivers first major milestones, published on 15 May 2025, whether the weapon will require a bespoke launch vehicle.

Answered by Maria Eagle - Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)

UK and Germany are considering several concepts and technologies to address emerging threats and have defined a joint range requirement of over 2,000 km. Specific characteristics, in-service dates and launch platforms are to be confirmed.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether he plans to procure any SG-1 Fathom underwater gliders.

Answered by Maria Eagle - Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)

The Royal Navy has begun industry engagement to understand how commercial systems could be used to conduct anti-submarine warfare in the Atlantic. Any acquisition of these capabilities would be subject to outcomes of the Strategic Defence Review, funding and open competition.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what budget has been allocated to Project Eve; what the (a) current and (b) anticipated future spend are for that project; and what steps he is taking to ensure interoperability with the (i) Army’s and (ii) Royal Navy’s communications systems.

Answered by Maria Eagle - Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)

As part of the Commando Force (CF) Programme, £99.78 million has been spent on spiral development and fielding of the EVE digital backbone capability. A further £56 million budget for EVE is approved as future spend, to enable interoperable development and scaling to Littoral Strike Group level by December 2030.

EVE, developed by the Royal Navy, has been a pathfinder in Defence digital innovation. EVE has been fielded by the Army’s Very High Readiness forces, as part of the Land Environment Tactical Communications and Information Systems programme. EVE is an integral part of the wider Royal Navy Strike Network design.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what the cost is of the Crye Precision uniform programme; and whether a replacement combat uniform programme is planned.

Answered by Maria Eagle - Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)

The Royal Navy have spent £15.803 million to date regarding the total procurement of Crye Precision uniforms. A future uniform programme is in development.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether the Royal Navy’s Maritime Aviation Transformation Strategy has made a decision on the future of the F-35B Lightning fighter aircraft.

Answered by Maria Eagle - Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)

The F-35B Lightning will be at the forefront of the Nation's conventional deterrent for decades to come.

The Royal Navy's Maritime Aviation Transformation Strategy is investigating how to further expand the deployment of uncrewed air systems in Royal Navy ships, including the aircraft carriers.

Decisions on future capabilities are subject to the outcome of the Strategic Defence Review (SDR) which is looking at the threats we face and the capabilities we need to meet the challenges, threats and opportunity of the 21st century.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, pursuant to the Answer of 8 May to Question 49007 on Unmanned Air Systems: Procurement, whether he has a target for procuring additional strike capabilities for the Queen Elizabeth class.

Answered by Maria Eagle - Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)

The Strategic Defence Review will inform any requirement for additional strike capabilities for the Queen Elizabeth Class. In the interim, the Royal Navy continues to investigate emerging technologies to understand how they can contribute to enhancing operational advantage.

Fixed Wing Autonomous Collaborative Platforms have the potential to enhance operational advantage, hence, will be evaluated in collaboration with the Royal Air Force.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how many and what proportion of vehicles rented by his Department are electric vehicles.

Answered by Maria Eagle - Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)

As of 19th May 2025, 2,588 of the Ministry of Defence's 11,572 vehicles leased through the Phoenix II contract are fully electric, representing 22.36% of the fleet. This does not include hybrid vehicles as the Department is moving towards 100% zero emission vehicles by 2027 in accordance with the Greening Government Commitment.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what his planned timetable is for developing the deep precision strike capability with Germany.

Answered by Maria Eagle - Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)

UK and Germany are considering several concepts and technologies to address emerging threats and have defined a joint range requirement of over 2,000km. Specific characteristics, in-service dates and launch platforms are to be confirmed.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what his Department's timetable is for publishing (a) a full timeline and (b) funding pathway for achieving the target of spending 2.5% of GDP on defence; and what plans he has for infrastructure upgrades at bases in Wiltshire.

Answered by Maria Eagle - Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)

The pathway to spending 2.5% of GDP on defence was set out in the Spring Statement earlier this year and will be reflected in the outcome of the second phase of the Spending Review that is due to be finalised on 11 June 2025.

The Defence Housing Strategy, planned for publication later this year, will set out a roadmap to deliver a generational renewal of military accommodation. The main objective is to raise the minimum standard of Armed Forces housing across the MOD estate, including military housing in Wiltshire.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, pursuant to the Answer of 28 April 2025 to Question 44594 on Ministers: Aviation, how many of the five tasks were (a) domestic flights within Great Britain and (b) flights from Great Britain to Northern Ireland.

Answered by Maria Eagle - Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)

None. All tasks were outside of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, pursuant to the Answer of 14 May 2025 to Question 50625 on Armed Forces: Housing, how many service personnel have used the Forces Help to Buy scheme in each of the last five financial years.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence)

The following table shows the number of First Stage applications for the Forces Help to Buy Scheme where the applicant has passed the initial eligibility checks.

Further statistics on the Forces Help to Buy Scheme Service are published by the Ministry of Defence on gov.uk at the following link:

www.gov.uk/government/statistics/forces-help-to-buy-scheme-quarterly-statistics-202425

The Defence Housing Strategy, planned for publication later this year, will set out a roadmap to deliver a generational renewal of military accommodation, where the main objective is to raise the minimum standard of Armed Forces housing. It will also turbocharge the development of surplus military land creating opportunities for Armed Forces home ownership and supporting the delivery of affordable homes for families across Britain as part of the Government’s Plan for Change.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how many RAF Envoy IV flights have been provided to (a) the Prime Minister and (b) other Ministers for domestic travel since 4 July 2025.

Answered by Maria Eagle - Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)

It has been the practice of successive administrations not to publish granular information relating to the official movements of Ministers and those accompanying them within the United Kingdom. Information about official overseas travel is published as part of the Cabinet Office transparency returns and made available on the GOV.UK website.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what steps his Department is taking to ensure that Project Grayburn (a) supports economic growth, (b) strengthens UK-based supply chains and (c) creates skilled jobs across the United Kingdom.

Answered by Maria Eagle - Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)

I refer the hon. Member to the answers I gave on 28 April 2025 to Question 45196 to the hon. Member for Huntingdon (Mr Obese-Jecty) and on 14 May 2025 to Question 50537 to the hon. Member for South Suffolk (Mr Cartlidge).

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what steps he is taking to replace the SA80 rifle.

Answered by Maria Eagle - Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)

I refer the hon. Member to the answers I gave on 28 April 2025 to Question 45196 to the hon. Member for Huntingdon (Mr Obese-Jecty) and on 14 May 2025 to Question 50537 to the hon. Member for South Suffolk (Mr Cartlidge).

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, pursuant to the Answer of 8 May 2025 to Question 49938 on Nuclear Submarines: Safety, what the Category (a) A and (b) B Nuclear Site Event Reports recorded at (i) Coulport and (ii) Faslane were.

Answered by Maria Eagle - Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)

Nuclear Site Event Reports are raised to foster a robust safety culture that learns from experience, whether that is equipment failures, human error, procedural failings, documentation shortcoming or near-misses.

I cannot provide specific detail for the events as disclosure would, or would be likely to, prejudice the capability, effectiveness or security of any relevant forces, I can assure the hon. Member that none of the events listed in Question 49938 caused harm to the health of any member of staff or to any member of the public and none have resulted in any radiological impact to the environment.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what recent discussions he has had with local councils on the implementation of VALOUR support centres.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence)

On 5 May 2025 my hon. Friend, the Minister for Veterans and People (Al Carns) announced VALOUR, a new UK-wide approach to veteran support, to foster the enterprising spirit of veteran charities, better connect local and national services and ensure that veterans’ support is data driven.

We will establish a network of field officers and VALOUR-recognised support centres, overseen by the Office for Veterans’ Affairs.

The detailed structures and processes that will underpin VALOUR will be designed in collaboration with relevant partners. That includes engagement and discussions with a range of stakeholders including local councils, who are a vital partner in this new endeavour.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what steps his Department is taking to ensure that the VALOUR support system is accessible to veterans in (a) rural and (b) remote areas.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence)

VALOUR is a new commitment to establish the first-ever UK-wide approach to veteran support. It will ensure easier access to essential care and support is available, wherever they live in the UK.

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

The detailed structures and processes that will underpin VALOUR will be designed in collaboration with relevant partners and further details will be announced in due course.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what is the total cost of the Royal Marines’ Knights Armament Stoner 1 (KS-1) rifle programme, including (a) optical and thermal sights and suppressors and (b) all associated equipment; and how much of this budget has been spent to date.

Answered by Maria Eagle - Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)

The Knight Stoner KS-1 has been procured by Royal Navy as part of the Future Commando Force Transformation. The total cost of this rifle to the Programme is £30.422 million, of which, £22.887 million has been spent to date.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what the planned in-service date is for the deep precision strike weapon that will be developed with Germany.

Answered by Maria Eagle - Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)

The UK and Germany are considering several concepts and technologies to address emerging threats so far and have defined a joint range requirement of over 2000km.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether he plans to procure the Lura-SG-1 artificial intelligence system.

Answered by Maria Eagle - Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)

The Royal Navy has begun industry engagement to understand how commercial systems could be used to conduct anti-submarine warfare in the Atlantic.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, pursuant to the Answer of 15 May 2025 to Question 46190 on Warships: Decommissioning, what the disposal plan is for (a) Wave and (b) Sandown class ships.

Answered by Maria Eagle - Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)

The Wave Class ships have been declared for regulatory and legislative-compliant disposal. All value for money options will be considered.

With regards to the Sandown Class, the transfer of HMS Pembroke via Government to Government sale to Romania will complete in the summer of this year. Disposal options are being scoped for two additional Sandown Class ships and HMS Bangor remains in service.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, pursuant to the Answer of 15 May 2025 to Question 46190 on Warships: Decommissioning, what ships will take on the role of mine clearance following the decommissioning of the Sandown Class vessels.

Answered by Maria Eagle - Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)

I refer the hon. Member to the response I provided to Question 47760 to the hon. Member for Suffolk South (James Cartlidge), on 29 April 2025.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, pursuant to the Answer of 15 May 2025 to Question 51569 on Aircraft Carriers, what factors his Department would consider on balancing funding decisions on aircraft launch and recovery equipment.

Answered by Maria Eagle - Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)

The Ministry of Defence considers numerous factors to ensure a balanced result when making procurement decisions. These include: operational capability enhancement and technical innovation offered by new equipment; alignment with national security and defence strategies; interoperability with allies; industrial benefits; lifecycle costs and affordability; procurement risk; environmental sustainability; and regulatory compliance.

Decisions on future capabilities are subject to the outcome of the Strategic Defence Review which is considering how the UK will meet the challenges, threats and opportunity of the 21^st century.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask His Majesty's Government what plans they have to retrospectively assess the awards and decorations given to the agents who fought for the UK in the F section of the Special Operations Executive in World War II, in particular (1) the small number of women who received military honours, and (2) the men who were killed but have no British award or decoration.

Answered by Lord Coaker - Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)

There is no doubt that the actions of the agents of F section of the Special Operations Executive were very brave, and the Government remains grateful for their service and sacrifice. Indeed, many were recognised with gallantry awards, such as the awards of the George Cross to Odette Sansom, Noor Khan, Cicely Lefort, Diana Rowden and Lilian Rolfe.

It is the long-standing policy of the UK Government, that military and civilian gallantry awards cannot be awarded retrospectively more than five years after the service or actions in question. This policy has been in place since the end of the Second World War and was approved by King George VI. Successive Governments have seen fit not to change it. It is a long-held belief that people making decisions at the time were better placed to make judgements about an individual’s actions than we can be now at a distance of many years and without information about other people’s contemporary actions for comparison.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask His Majesty's Government what visits have been made by Royal Navy vessels (1) to ports in Tunisia, and (2) through Tunisian waters, since 2020.

Answered by Lord Coaker - Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)

Royal Navy surface vessels have visited Tunisian ports and waters on four occasions since 2020. The visits took place in September and October 2020, April 2021 and November 2022.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the report by the Institute of Social Innovation and Impact at the University of Northampton The impact and value of school-based cadet forces in the UK, published in March, and whether they plan to increase the number of state schools with a Combined Cadet Force.

Answered by Lord Coaker - Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)

We very much welcome the excellent research by the University of Northampton on the impact and value of school-based Cadet Forces in the UK, a study commissioned by the Ministry of Defence (MOD).

The report makes compelling reading for anyone interested in the development of young people. There are many useful insights in the report for school leaders to help support their efforts to seek wider opportunities for all their pupils – and breaking down barriers to opportunity is a core Government mission.

The report illustrates the positive impact that school-based Cadet Forces can have on the young people who join and shows how the ‘cadet experience’ can help them develop self-confidence, teamwork, leadership and resilience.

Given these and many other benefits, we want more young people to be able to become cadets. To this end we are currently reviewing how we can increase both the size and the offer of the Cadet Forces. This work is closely aligned with the Strategic Defence Review, and we have been engaging widely to consider how best to deliver these aims.

The joint MOD and Department for Education Cadet Expansion Programme has already seen a significant rise in the number of state schools with Combined Cadet Forces and we continue to invest in this growth.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, pursuant to the Answer of 12 March to Question 34638 on Puma Helicopters: Decommissioning, what assessment he has made of any capability gap created by retiring the Puma helicopter fleet in (a) Brunei and (b) Cyprus in the 2025-26 financial year.

Answered by Maria Eagle - Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)

The Ministry of Defence continues to routinely assess and reassess capabilities required by deployed UK forces. In support of Commander British Forces Cyprus, two Royal Air Force CH47 Chinook helicopters are currently forward deployed to provide an aerial firefighting capability through the wildfire season and are able to provide a range of supporting functions. Mitigations against jungle training in Brunei are in place however it is the long-standing policy of the UK Government not to comment on UK SF activity. The six Airbus H145 HC2 Jupiter helicopters will deploy and commence operational activity in Brunei and Cyprus in 2026.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to the policy paper entitled Security and defence partnership between the European Union and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, published on 19 May 2025, if he will list the policy areas where the European Court of Justice will have additional (a) oversight and (b) powers over existing treaties in (i) Great Britain and (ii) Northern Ireland.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence)

The Security and Defence partnership (SDP) agreed with the EU at the UK-EU Summit on 19 May 2025 demonstrates that this Government is delivering on our manifesto pledge to strengthen European security, support growth, and reinforce NATO.

This is a legally non-binding instrument that sets a framework for deeper cooperation on key issues like Ukraine, defence industry and peace building and crisis management; opening up the potential possible opportunity to engage with the EU’s proposed €150 billion Security Action for Europe (SAFE) mechanism.

We are in discussion with the EU on implementation and the future modalities of cooperation. We would only agree to future financial contributions to EU programmes that provide value to the UK taxpayer.

I would refer to the Prime Minister’s statement and answers on 20 May, regarding the role of the European Court of Justice. However, I can confirm that the SDP is clear that our participation in defence initiatives will be in accordance with our respective legal frameworks.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to the policy paper entitled Security and defence partnership between the European Union and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, published on 19 May 2025, what additional financial payments will the United Kingdom be required to make to the European Union and its agencies in each of the next four years.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence)

The Security and Defence partnership (SDP) agreed with the EU at the UK-EU Summit on 19 May 2025 demonstrates that this Government is delivering on our manifesto pledge to strengthen European security, support growth, and reinforce NATO.

This is a legally non-binding instrument that sets a framework for deeper cooperation on key issues like Ukraine, defence industry and peace building and crisis management; opening up the potential possible opportunity to engage with the EU’s proposed €150 billion Security Action for Europe (SAFE) mechanism.

We are in discussion with the EU on implementation and the future modalities of cooperation. We would only agree to future financial contributions to EU programmes that provide value to the UK taxpayer.

I would refer to the Prime Minister’s statement and answers on 20 May, regarding the role of the European Court of Justice. However, I can confirm that the SDP is clear that our participation in defence initiatives will be in accordance with our respective legal frameworks.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to the policy paper entitled Security and defence partnership between the European Union and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, published on 19 May 2025, what potential role the United Kingdom would play in the European Peace Facility; and what payments would be made (a) directly and (b) indirectly to the Facility.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence)

The Security and Defence partnership (SDP) agreed with the EU at the UK-EU Summit on 19 May 2025 demonstrates that this Government is delivering on our manifesto pledge to strengthen European security, support growth, and reinforce NATO.

This is a legally non-binding instrument that sets a framework for deeper cooperation on key issues like Ukraine, defence industry and peace building and crisis management; opening up the potential possible opportunity to engage with the EU’s proposed €150 billion Security Action for Europe (SAFE) mechanism.

We are in discussion with the EU on implementation and the future modalities of cooperation. We would only agree to future financial contributions to EU programmes that provide value to the UK taxpayer.

I would refer to the Prime Minister’s statement and answers on 20 May, regarding the role of the European Court of Justice. However, I can confirm that the SDP is clear that our participation in defence initiatives will be in accordance with our respective legal frameworks.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to the news story entitled PM secures new agreement with EU to benefit British people, published on 19 May 2025, what estimate he has made of the annual cost of participation in the EU's Security Action for Europe defence fund in each of the next four years.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence)

The Security and Defence partnership (SDP) agreed with the EU at the UK-EU Summit on 19 May 2025 demonstrates that this Government is delivering on our manifesto pledge to strengthen European security, support growth, and reinforce NATO.

This is a legally non-binding instrument that sets a framework for deeper cooperation on key issues like Ukraine, defence industry and peace building and crisis management; opening up the potential possible opportunity to engage with the EU’s proposed €150 billion Security Action for Europe (SAFE) mechanism.

We are in discussion with the EU on implementation and the future modalities of cooperation. We would only agree to future financial contributions to EU programmes that provide value to the UK taxpayer.

I would refer to the Prime Minister’s statement and answers on 20 May, regarding the role of the European Court of Justice. However, I can confirm that the SDP is clear that our participation in defence initiatives will be in accordance with our respective legal frameworks.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment he has made on the Government’s progress in implementing the recommendations of the House of Commons Defence Committee's report entitled Protecting those who protect us: Women in the Armed Forces from Recruitment to Civilian Life, published on 25 July 2021.

Answered by Al Carns - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for Veterans)

I refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave on 6 March 2025 to Question 34425 to the hon. Member for Newton Abbot (Martin Wrigley).

Regarding outstanding recommendations from the Report, the new Armed Forces Sexual Harassment Survey has been launched, and the Veterans’ Strategy, to be published later this year, will include a dedicated section on female veterans.

In March I briefed the House of Commons Defence Committee on additional commitments Defence has made: We are improving how the most serious Service Complaints are dealt with quickly, fairly and in a standardised way across the Armed Forces via the establishment of an independent tri-Service team, and we have begun work to develop a Violence Against Women and Girls Taskforce to support the broader government agenda on this important subject.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether the findings of the investigation into unauthorised social media use by a British Army regiment will be made publicly available.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence)

The Army has investigated a number of social media posts which were published in error and without correct authorisation. Those posts have been removed and updated guidance has been issued to Regimental HQs on the appropriate use of regimental websites and social media pages. This work has been conducted as part of Army routine business, with no additional costs incurred.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what estimate he has made of the cost of the investigation into unauthorised social media use by a British Army regiment.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence)

The Army has investigated a number of social media posts which were published in error and without correct authorisation. Those posts have been removed and updated guidance has been issued to Regimental HQs on the appropriate use of regimental websites and social media pages. This work has been conducted as part of Army routine business, with no additional costs incurred.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what his planned timeline is for concluding the investigation into unauthorised social media use by a British Army regiment; and whether he plans to make a Statement to Parliament on the findings of the investigation.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence)

The Army has investigated a number of social media posts which were published in error and without correct authorisation. Those posts have been removed and updated guidance has been issued to Regimental HQs on the appropriate use of regimental websites and social media pages. This work has been conducted as part of Army routine business, with no additional costs incurred.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what the terms of reference are for the investigation into unauthorised social media posts by a British Army regiment.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence)

The Army has investigated a number of social media posts which were published in error and without correct authorisation. Those posts have been removed and updated guidance has been issued to Regimental HQs on the appropriate use of regimental websites and social media pages. This work has been conducted as part of Army routine business, with no additional costs incurred.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, who is leading the investigation into unauthorised social media use by a British Army regiment.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence)

The Army has investigated a number of social media posts which were published in error and without correct authorisation. Those posts have been removed and updated guidance has been issued to Regimental HQs on the appropriate use of regimental websites and social media pages. This work has been conducted as part of Army routine business, with no additional costs incurred.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what recent steps his Department has taken to support the mental health needs of veterans in Northern Ireland.

Answered by Al Carns - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for Veterans)

This Government is committed to ensuring that veterans can access the appropriate support wherever they live in the UK. 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. This regional approach, based on a network of VALOUR support centres providing multiple services in one place, together with regional field officers coordinating the provision of local services, will ensure that services are designed to meet the needs of local communities.

Specialist statutory support for veterans who reside in Northern Ireland is delivered by the Veterans Welfare Service Northern Ireland (VWS NI) to ensure effective and enduring support is available. In April, the VWS NI renewed and expanded its unique medical contracts, providing psychological therapies and physiotherapy to eligible veterans, namely those with conditions attributable to their service.

Veterans who are resident in Northern Ireland can also access a range of UK-wide support, while Government funding via the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust supports the Thrive Together Programme, which operates across the UK.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment he has made of the adequacy of the assessment process for veterans for the unemployment supplement; and what steps he is planning to take to ensure veterans with service-related disabilities are not disadvantaged by the replacement of the work capability assessment.

Answered by Al Carns - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for Veterans)

Unemployability Supplement is one of the supplementary allowances paid under the War Pension Scheme which is assessed and administered by the Ministry of Defence (MOD). Where equivalent benefits provided by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) are considered to overlap, in line with longstanding public policy, assessments ensure an individual would not be compensated twice for any single injury or condition.

The MOD and DWP continue to collaborate closely to ensure that any proposed changes to respective schemes and benefits are communicated and considered.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, if his Department will make an assessment of the suitability of the appointment of General Sir Gwyn Jenkins as First Sea Lord.

Answered by Al Carns - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for Veterans)

General Jenkins is a proven leader with a distinguished career in both the military and at the core of Government. He brings with him a wealth of operational and organisational expertise and he will continue the modernisation of the Royal Navy, ensuring it can meet future threats and continue to safeguard our nation’s security and prosperity.

As with all Defence appointments at this seniority, there was a rigorous selection process involving a panel with the Secretary of State, the Permanent Secretary, a Non-Executive Director and an independent panel member. Final approval to appoint was granted by the Prime Minister and the King.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what his planned timeline is for the introduction of the Digital Veteran Card.

Answered by Al Carns - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for Veterans)

The digital HM Armed Forces Veteran Card is scheduled for release by the end of summer 2025.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, when an RAF aircraft was last deployed from RAF Akrotiri on a strike mission; and what the intended target was.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence)

On 29 April 2025, RAF Typhoon FGR4s deploying from RAF Akrotiri conducted strikes against Houthi weapons manufacture facilities in Yemen.

This action was in line with long-standing policy of the UK Government to support wider efforts to uphold freedom of navigation within the Red Sea.

It was reported to Parliament on 30 April 2025.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to paragraph eight of his Department's policy paper entitled Security and defence partnership between the European Union and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, published on 19 May 2025, when the UK plans to formally join the Permanent Structured Co-operation on security and defence (PESCO) project Military Mobility.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence)

The Security and Defence Partnership (SDP) agreed with the EU will strengthen NATO, the cornerstone of the UK’s defence. It will complement our core bilateral partnerships – particularly France, Germany, Poland, Italy, and Norway.

The SDP will enable dialogue and cooperation on key issues like Ukraine, space, hybrid, maritime security and resilience of critical infrastructure. These exchanges will be flexible and scalable according to need. For example, we are working to ensure that our personnel and assets can more easily move across the European continent in times of both peace and crisis, including exploring participation in PESCO projects that bolster our NATO warfighting plans.

Implementation will be overseen jointly by the Defence Secretary and the Foreign Secretary. The detail of the terms and the modalities for implementation are under discussion, including any exploration of an Administrative Arrangement with the European Defence Agency, UK participation in additional EU crisis management activity and attendance at working level policy and information exchanges or secondments.

Any commitment– whether financial or non-financial – will provide value to the UK taxpayer and deliver the UK’s defence.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to paragraph six of the policy paper entitled Security and defence partnership between the European Union and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, published on 19 May 2025, how the EU-UK Security and Defence Partnership will reinforce the UK's contribution to NATO.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence)

The Security and Defence Partnership (SDP) agreed with the EU will strengthen NATO, the cornerstone of the UK’s defence. It will complement our core bilateral partnerships – particularly France, Germany, Poland, Italy, and Norway.

The SDP will enable dialogue and cooperation on key issues like Ukraine, space, hybrid, maritime security and resilience of critical infrastructure. These exchanges will be flexible and scalable according to need. For example, we are working to ensure that our personnel and assets can more easily move across the European continent in times of both peace and crisis, including exploring participation in PESCO projects that bolster our NATO warfighting plans.

Implementation will be overseen jointly by the Defence Secretary and the Foreign Secretary. The detail of the terms and the modalities for implementation are under discussion, including any exploration of an Administrative Arrangement with the European Defence Agency, UK participation in additional EU crisis management activity and attendance at working level policy and information exchanges or secondments.

Any commitment– whether financial or non-financial – will provide value to the UK taxpayer and deliver the UK’s defence.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to clause 12, subsection A, of the Security and Defence Partnership announced on 19 May 2025, if he will list all participants of the six-monthly foreign and security policy dialogues.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence)

The Security and Defence Partnership (SDP) agreed with the EU will strengthen NATO, the cornerstone of the UK’s defence. It will complement our core bilateral partnerships – particularly France, Germany, Poland, Italy, and Norway.

The SDP will enable dialogue and cooperation on key issues like Ukraine, space, hybrid, maritime security and resilience of critical infrastructure. These exchanges will be flexible and scalable according to need. For example, we are working to ensure that our personnel and assets can more easily move across the European continent in times of both peace and crisis, including exploring participation in PESCO projects that bolster our NATO warfighting plans.

Implementation will be overseen jointly by the Defence Secretary and the Foreign Secretary. The detail of the terms and the modalities for implementation are under discussion, including any exploration of an Administrative Arrangement with the European Defence Agency, UK participation in additional EU crisis management activity and attendance at working level policy and information exchanges or secondments.

Any commitment– whether financial or non-financial – will provide value to the UK taxpayer and deliver the UK’s defence.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how many Ukrainian military personnel from the Ukrainian Armed Forces Shkval Battalions have been trained in the UK.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence)

With regard to Op INTERFLEX, our major training operation for Ukrainian forces, the data held by INTERFLEX Headquarters is limited due to the closed nature of the questions which are asked when Ukrainian troops arrive, and we do not specifically track or ask which units individuals come from.

Over 54,000 Ukrainian personnel have been trained under Operation INTERFLEX since June 2022.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to paragraph 12B of his Department's policy paper entitled Security and defence partnership between the European Union and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, published on 19 May 2025, what the requirements are for the UK to invite the HR to high-level meetings organised by the UK.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence)

The Security and Defence Partnership (SDP) agreed with the EU will strengthen NATO, the cornerstone of the UK’s defence. It will complement our core bilateral partnerships – particularly France, Germany, Poland, Italy, and Norway.

The SDP will enable dialogue and cooperation on key issues like Ukraine, space, hybrid, maritime security and resilience of critical infrastructure. These exchanges will be flexible and scalable according to need. For example, we are working to ensure that our personnel and assets can more easily move across the European continent in times of both peace and crisis, including exploring participation in PESCO projects that bolster our NATO warfighting plans.

Implementation will be overseen jointly by the Defence Secretary and the Foreign Secretary. The detail of the terms and the modalities for implementation are under discussion, including any exploration of an Administrative Arrangement with the European Defence Agency, UK participation in additional EU crisis management activity and attendance at working level policy and information exchanges or secondments.

Any commitment– whether financial or non-financial – will provide value to the UK taxpayer and deliver the UK’s defence.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to paragraph 12B of his Department's policy paper entitled Security and defence partnership between the European Union and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, published on 19 May 2025, what the requirements are for the UK to receive an invitation to the EU high-level meetings.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence)

The Security and Defence Partnership (SDP) agreed with the EU will strengthen NATO, the cornerstone of the UK’s defence. It will complement our core bilateral partnerships – particularly France, Germany, Poland, Italy, and Norway.

The SDP will enable dialogue and cooperation on key issues like Ukraine, space, hybrid, maritime security and resilience of critical infrastructure. These exchanges will be flexible and scalable according to need. For example, we are working to ensure that our personnel and assets can more easily move across the European continent in times of both peace and crisis, including exploring participation in PESCO projects that bolster our NATO warfighting plans.

Implementation will be overseen jointly by the Defence Secretary and the Foreign Secretary. The detail of the terms and the modalities for implementation are under discussion, including any exploration of an Administrative Arrangement with the European Defence Agency, UK participation in additional EU crisis management activity and attendance at working level policy and information exchanges or secondments.

Any commitment– whether financial or non-financial – will provide value to the UK taxpayer and deliver the UK’s defence.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to paragraph 12A of his Department's policy paper entitled Security and defence partnership between the European Union and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, published on 19 May 2025, where the six-monthly foreign and security policy dialogues take place.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence)

The Security and Defence Partnership (SDP) agreed with the EU will strengthen NATO, the cornerstone of the UK’s defence. It will complement our core bilateral partnerships – particularly France, Germany, Poland, Italy, and Norway.

The SDP will enable dialogue and cooperation on key issues like Ukraine, space, hybrid, maritime security and resilience of critical infrastructure. These exchanges will be flexible and scalable according to need. For example, we are working to ensure that our personnel and assets can more easily move across the European continent in times of both peace and crisis, including exploring participation in PESCO projects that bolster our NATO warfighting plans.

Implementation will be overseen jointly by the Defence Secretary and the Foreign Secretary. The detail of the terms and the modalities for implementation are under discussion, including any exploration of an Administrative Arrangement with the European Defence Agency, UK participation in additional EU crisis management activity and attendance at working level policy and information exchanges or secondments.

Any commitment– whether financial or non-financial – will provide value to the UK taxpayer and deliver the UK’s defence.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to paragraph 18 of his Department's policy paper entitled Security and defence partnership between the European Union and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, published on 19 May 2025, in what circumstances would the UK invite the EU to (a) observe and (b) participate in crisis management exercises.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence)

The Security and Defence Partnership (SDP) agreed with the EU will strengthen NATO, the cornerstone of the UK’s defence. It will complement our core bilateral partnerships – particularly France, Germany, Poland, Italy, and Norway.

The SDP will enable dialogue and cooperation on key issues like Ukraine, space, hybrid, maritime security and resilience of critical infrastructure. These exchanges will be flexible and scalable according to need. For example, we are working to ensure that our personnel and assets can more easily move across the European continent in times of both peace and crisis, including exploring participation in PESCO projects that bolster our NATO warfighting plans.

Implementation will be overseen jointly by the Defence Secretary and the Foreign Secretary. The detail of the terms and the modalities for implementation are under discussion, including any exploration of an Administrative Arrangement with the European Defence Agency, UK participation in additional EU crisis management activity and attendance at working level policy and information exchanges or secondments.

Any commitment– whether financial or non-financial – will provide value to the UK taxpayer and deliver the UK’s defence.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to paragraph 18 of the policy paper entitled Security and defence partnership between the European Union and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, published on 19 May 2025, whether the UK military chiefs will (a) observe and (b) participate in EU crisis management exercises.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence)

The Security and Defence Partnership (SDP) agreed with the EU will strengthen NATO, the cornerstone of the UK’s defence. It will complement our core bilateral partnerships – particularly France, Germany, Poland, Italy, and Norway.

The SDP will enable dialogue and cooperation on key issues like Ukraine, space, hybrid, maritime security and resilience of critical infrastructure. These exchanges will be flexible and scalable according to need. For example, we are working to ensure that our personnel and assets can more easily move across the European continent in times of both peace and crisis, including exploring participation in PESCO projects that bolster our NATO warfighting plans.

Implementation will be overseen jointly by the Defence Secretary and the Foreign Secretary. The detail of the terms and the modalities for implementation are under discussion, including any exploration of an Administrative Arrangement with the European Defence Agency, UK participation in additional EU crisis management activity and attendance at working level policy and information exchanges or secondments.

Any commitment– whether financial or non-financial – will provide value to the UK taxpayer and deliver the UK’s defence.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to paragraph 22 of the policy paper entitled Security and defence partnership between the European Union and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, published on 19 May 2025, who will participate in the EU and UK’s regular exchanges on maritime security.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence)

The Security and Defence Partnership (SDP) agreed with the EU will strengthen NATO, the cornerstone of the UK’s defence. It will complement our core bilateral partnerships – particularly France, Germany, Poland, Italy, and Norway.

The SDP will enable dialogue and cooperation on key issues like Ukraine, space, hybrid, maritime security and resilience of critical infrastructure. These exchanges will be flexible and scalable according to need. For example, we are working to ensure that our personnel and assets can more easily move across the European continent in times of both peace and crisis, including exploring participation in PESCO projects that bolster our NATO warfighting plans.

Implementation will be overseen jointly by the Defence Secretary and the Foreign Secretary. The detail of the terms and the modalities for implementation are under discussion, including any exploration of an Administrative Arrangement with the European Defence Agency, UK participation in additional EU crisis management activity and attendance at working level policy and information exchanges or secondments.

Any commitment– whether financial or non-financial – will provide value to the UK taxpayer and deliver the UK’s defence.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to paragraph 22 of the policy paper entitled Security and defence partnership between the European Union and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, published on 19 May 2025, how frequently will the EU and UK hold exchanges on maritime security.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence)

The Security and Defence Partnership (SDP) agreed with the EU will strengthen NATO, the cornerstone of the UK’s defence. It will complement our core bilateral partnerships – particularly France, Germany, Poland, Italy, and Norway.

The SDP will enable dialogue and cooperation on key issues like Ukraine, space, hybrid, maritime security and resilience of critical infrastructure. These exchanges will be flexible and scalable according to need. For example, we are working to ensure that our personnel and assets can more easily move across the European continent in times of both peace and crisis, including exploring participation in PESCO projects that bolster our NATO warfighting plans.

Implementation will be overseen jointly by the Defence Secretary and the Foreign Secretary. The detail of the terms and the modalities for implementation are under discussion, including any exploration of an Administrative Arrangement with the European Defence Agency, UK participation in additional EU crisis management activity and attendance at working level policy and information exchanges or secondments.

Any commitment– whether financial or non-financial – will provide value to the UK taxpayer and deliver the UK’s defence.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to paragraph 12, subsection F, of the policy paper entitled Security and defence partnership between the European Union and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, published on 19 May 2025, whether he plans to accept the invitation to participate in the biannual Schuman Security and Defence Forum.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence)

The Security and Defence Partnership (SDP) agreed with the EU will strengthen NATO, the cornerstone of the UK’s defence. It will complement our core bilateral partnerships – particularly France, Germany, Poland, Italy, and Norway.

The SDP will enable dialogue and cooperation on key issues like Ukraine, space, hybrid, maritime security and resilience of critical infrastructure. These exchanges will be flexible and scalable according to need. For example, we are working to ensure that our personnel and assets can more easily move across the European continent in times of both peace and crisis, including exploring participation in PESCO projects that bolster our NATO warfighting plans.

Implementation will be overseen jointly by the Defence Secretary and the Foreign Secretary. The detail of the terms and the modalities for implementation are under discussion, including any exploration of an Administrative Arrangement with the European Defence Agency, UK participation in additional EU crisis management activity and attendance at working level policy and information exchanges or secondments.

Any commitment– whether financial or non-financial – will provide value to the UK taxpayer and deliver the UK’s defence.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to paragraph 18of the policy paper entitled Security and defence partnership between the European Union and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, published on 19 May 2025, under what circumstances the UK will be invited to (a) observe and (b) participate in EU crisis management exercises.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence)

The Security and Defence Partnership (SDP) agreed with the EU will strengthen NATO, the cornerstone of the UK’s defence. It will complement our core bilateral partnerships – particularly France, Germany, Poland, Italy, and Norway.

The SDP will enable dialogue and cooperation on key issues like Ukraine, space, hybrid, maritime security and resilience of critical infrastructure. These exchanges will be flexible and scalable according to need. For example, we are working to ensure that our personnel and assets can more easily move across the European continent in times of both peace and crisis, including exploring participation in PESCO projects that bolster our NATO warfighting plans.

Implementation will be overseen jointly by the Defence Secretary and the Foreign Secretary. The detail of the terms and the modalities for implementation are under discussion, including any exploration of an Administrative Arrangement with the European Defence Agency, UK participation in additional EU crisis management activity and attendance at working level policy and information exchanges or secondments.

Any commitment– whether financial or non-financial – will provide value to the UK taxpayer and deliver the UK’s defence.

Found: IND0116 - Industrial Strategy Ministry of Defence Written Evidence

Found: applications in business-to-business (B2B) and business-to-government (B2G) contexts  Is a recipient of UK MOD

Found: partner to the NHS – operating in over 20 NHS Trusts, many government departments, including the MoD

Found: Recommendations 1) Ex-Ministry of Defence sites should not be used to accommodate LGBTQI people, both

Found: Embassy’s defence section enjoys "very good access" to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and the Ministry of Defence

Found: for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs; Department for Science, Innovation and Technology; Ministry of Defence

Found: Shared Business Services (UKSBS) Limited) and former Authority employees who transferred to the Ministry of Defence

Found: There is help—there are tools and support from the MOD and people like ourselves—but more could probably

Found: SSS0006 - Scotland’s space sector follow-up: launch Ministry of Defence Written Evidence

Found: Whether it is the security service or, indeed, the PSNI or the MOD or anybody else, we will need to

Found: the Department for Education, the Home Office, the Department of Health and Social Care, the Ministry of Defence

Found: policy in 1970 with the radical and permanent separation of defence procurement (handed to the Ministry of Defence

Found: in the products, services or other solutions it buys through departments and agencies such as the MoD

Found: The Ministry of Defence and other public-sector bodies should coordinate to produce a comprehensive

Found: could be mirrored across the whole public sector estate as well as the broader economy, including the MoD

Found: NHS, MOD) are often misaligned or operate in isolation.

Found: the aerospace and defence sectors, cross-government cooperation must be improved between the Ministry of Defence

Found: departments, such as the FCDO for international advocacy, the Home Office for fast-tracking visas, the MOD

Found: Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT), the Department for Business and Trade (DBT) and the Ministry of Defence

Found: Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (dstl) runs the ‘R-Cloud’ system on behalf of the Ministry of Defence

Found: and set clear goals across its eight priority sectors, using departments like the NHS and Ministry of Defence

Found: industry to address onerous terms on IP that create barriers for SMEs to contract directly with the MOD

Found: have been for the directing of all strategic research in electronics and sensors for the Ministry of Defence

Found: the Departments Science, Innovation and Technology and Business and Trade as well as the Ministry of Defence

Found: stress - are recognised security concerns. 6.2 We are engaged in dialogue with elements of the Ministry of Defence

Found: for an interdisciplinary approach to the space domain, working across the House of Lords, Ministry of Defence

Found: and currently has 11 satellites in various stages of manufacture including two missions for the UK MoD

Found: In February 2025 MOD announced substantial investment in the Oberon programme to procure two sovereign

Found: UKSA, Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, Ministry of Defence, and Department for Business

Found: Additionally, through NSpOC, UKSA and MOD collaborate across all operational pillars and have jointly

Found: The Ministry of Defence has made significant steps towards re-establishing a sovereign defence space

Found: Recognising this need, the MOD is refining its procurement rules, processes, and systems to enhance

Found: Network, Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, Department for Business and Trade, Ministry of Defence

Found: written in conjunction with the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory - an agency of the Ministry of Defence

Found: within countries, sensible, helpful things, or long-term military training activities led by the MOD

Found: within countries, sensible, helpful things, or long-term military training activities led by the MOD

Found: Do you think our Ministry of Defence is an intelligent customer?

Found: Even if you pay a very high level of tax, you are not funding the MOD on your own.

Found: The ISTARI programme that the MoD is now pursuing is a research and development constellation, not an

Found: relationship between businesses and government bodies, including UKRI, the UK Space Agency, DSIT and the MoD

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, pursuant to the Answer of 6 May 2025 to Question 48180 on 10 Downing Street: Flags, whether (a) Downing Street and (b) the Government Property Agency own a NATO flag.

Answered by Abena Oppong-Asare - Parliamentary Secretary (Cabinet Office)

Yes. NATO is the cornerstone of our security and our commitment to the alliance is unshakeable. As a founding signatory, the UK plays a leading role, having contributed to every NATO mission. By increasing defence spending to 2.5% of GDP, we will continue to strengthen our capabilities and contribution to NATO. To mark NATO Day, the NATO Flag was flown above the FCDO and above the MoD Main Building on 4th April 2025.

Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what assessment she has made of the potential impact of restricting access to the limited work capability component of Universal Credit for those under the age of 22 on (a) armed forces early service leavers and (b) people who have been medically discharged from the armed forces.

Answered by Stephen Timms - Minister of State (Department for Work and Pensions)

In our recent Pathways to Work Green Paper, published on 18 March 2025, we announced a broad package of reforms to the health and disability benefit and support system. Importantly, no changes are proposed to Armed Forces Independence Payments (AFIP), which continue to provide support to some of the most severely disabled veterans.

For those in receipt of PIP who may be affected by the proposed eligibility changes, we are consulting on how best to support this group, including how to ensure health and eligible care needs are met. We also intend to launch a wider review of the PIP assessment process, bringing together experts, stakeholders, and individuals with lived experience. We will provide further details as plans progress.

As we develop proposals further, we are carefully considering the potential impacts, including on veterans and their families, as part of our broader response to the Green Paper consultation. We would encourage organisations supporting and representing veterans, such as the Royal British Legion, the Soldiers', Sailors', and Airmen's Families Association (SSAFA), and many others, to contribute their views on how best to support wounded, injured, and sick veterans.

I have also asked my officials to work with their counterparts in the Office for Veterans' Affairs (OVA) to organise a dedicated consultation event for armed forces stakeholders, likely to take place in June. We are also providing detailed briefings on the proposals to Ministry of Defence (MoD) and OVA officials. Once we have completed the consultation we will be building up to a White Paper, where we will once again engage with MoD and the OVA in advance of collective agreement.

We are also welcoming views on raising the age at which someone can access the Universal Credit health element to 22 as part of our Green Paper consultation.

A further programme of analysis to support development of the proposals in the Green Paper will be developed and undertaken in the coming months.

• There will be no immediate changes. Changes to PIP eligibility and rebalancing of UC aren’t coming into effect immediately. Our intention is these changes will start to come into effect from April 2026 for UC and November 2026 for PIP, subject to parliamentary approval.
• The social security system will always be there for those who can’t work. As part of making changes to the payment rates in Universal Credit, we will ensure that the incomes of those with the most severe, lifelong conditions who will never be able to work have their incomes protected.
• Protecting those most in need is at the heart of our reforms. Our Green Paper outlines why we think removing the WCA and moving to using the PIP assessment as the single assessment for additional financial support, is the correct decision for the reformed system.
• We understand that for some people, work is simply not possible. We will work through how, without a WCA, these people can be identified and put in place appropriate protections, such as considering award reviews. Engagement with employment support will be determined on a personal basis, according to needs.
• For new claimants on the UC health element after April 2026, we are proposing that those with the most severe, life-long health conditions, who will never be able to work, will see their incomes protected.
• Those on UC, with the most severe, life-long conditions, which mean a person cannot and will never work, will not be called for review in future.

Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what assessment she has made of the potential impact of the planned restructuring of the health component of Universal Credit on (a) armed forces veterans and their dependents and (b) armed forces veterans with limited access to employment.

Answered by Stephen Timms - Minister of State (Department for Work and Pensions)

In our recent Pathways to Work Green Paper, published on 18 March 2025, we announced a broad package of reforms to the health and disability benefit and support system. Importantly, no changes are proposed to Armed Forces Independence Payments (AFIP), which continue to provide support to some of the most severely disabled veterans.

For those in receipt of PIP who may be affected by the proposed eligibility changes, we are consulting on how best to support this group, including how to ensure health and eligible care needs are met. We also intend to launch a wider review of the PIP assessment process, bringing together experts, stakeholders, and individuals with lived experience. We will provide further details as plans progress.

As we develop proposals further, we are carefully considering the potential impacts, including on veterans and their families, as part of our broader response to the Green Paper consultation. We would encourage organisations supporting and representing veterans, such as the Royal British Legion, the Soldiers', Sailors', and Airmen's Families Association (SSAFA), and many others, to contribute their views on how best to support wounded, injured, and sick veterans.

I have also asked my officials to work with their counterparts in the Office for Veterans' Affairs (OVA) to organise a dedicated consultation event for armed forces stakeholders, likely to take place in June. We are also providing detailed briefings on the proposals to Ministry of Defence (MoD) and OVA officials. Once we have completed the consultation we will be building up to a White Paper, where we will once again engage with MoD and the OVA in advance of collective agreement.

We are also welcoming views on raising the age at which someone can access the Universal Credit health element to 22 as part of our Green Paper consultation.

A further programme of analysis to support development of the proposals in the Green Paper will be developed and undertaken in the coming months.

• There will be no immediate changes. Changes to PIP eligibility and rebalancing of UC aren’t coming into effect immediately. Our intention is these changes will start to come into effect from April 2026 for UC and November 2026 for PIP, subject to parliamentary approval.
• The social security system will always be there for those who can’t work. As part of making changes to the payment rates in Universal Credit, we will ensure that the incomes of those with the most severe, lifelong conditions who will never be able to work have their incomes protected.
• Protecting those most in need is at the heart of our reforms. Our Green Paper outlines why we think removing the WCA and moving to using the PIP assessment as the single assessment for additional financial support, is the correct decision for the reformed system.
• We understand that for some people, work is simply not possible. We will work through how, without a WCA, these people can be identified and put in place appropriate protections, such as considering award reviews. Engagement with employment support will be determined on a personal basis, according to needs.
• For new claimants on the UC health element after April 2026, we are proposing that those with the most severe, life-long health conditions, who will never be able to work, will see their incomes protected.
• Those on UC, with the most severe, life-long conditions, which mean a person cannot and will never work, will not be called for review in future.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what engagement her Department has had with local authorities on compliance with their Covenant Legal Duty.

Answered by Rushanara Ali - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

I refer the hon Member to my letter of 4 April 2025 to the Defence Committee on this subject. I will also share a copy of the letter with his office.

As lead department for the Covenant, the Ministry of Defence also engages regularly with local authorities on implementation and delivery of the Covenant.

Question to the Home Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, when her Department plans to close the Asylum Reception Centre at the former RAF Wethersfield site; and what steps she is taking to ensure that the decommissioning is within the timescale outlined in the Special Development Order.

Answered by Angela Eagle - Minister of State (Home Office)

Any updates on the future use of the site will be announced in the normal way.

Found: The MoD Estimate memorandum confirms that since 2022/23, the MoD has received £3 billion per year to

All members of government, MPs and the PM should have to take random mandatory drug tests just like the MOD and public services and should be removed from their positions if they fail their test

Found: government and parliament should be held to the same standards as they hold the men and women of the MOD

Found: BARONESS COFFEY _ Clause 101, page 134, line 13, at end insert— “(iii) that is provided by the Ministry of Defence

Found: BARONESS COFFEY _ Clause 101, page 134, line 13, at end insert— “(iii) that is provided by the Ministry of Defence

Found: BARONESS GRENDER _ Clause 101, page 134, line 13, at end insert— “(iii) that is provided by the Ministry of Defence

Found: BARONESS GRENDER ★_ Clause 101, page 134, line 13, at end insert— “(iii) that is provided by the Ministry of Defence

Found: activities to children, such as sports clubs, music, dance or drama groups, youth clubs, and Ministry of Defence

Found: in the Police Act 1996 — see section 101(1) of that Act), (ii) the chief constable of the Ministry of Defence

Found: which provides a range of secure services worldwide and operates as a trading fund of FCDO; • Ministry of Defence

Found: Home Office - Ministers' Hospitality - April 2025 CSV, 645 Bytes View online Ministry of Defence

Found: Despite the severity of these crimes, the true scale and impact of mod ern slavery often goes unrecognised

Found: This includes work with the Ministry of Defence, MHCLG, Department for Business and Trade, the Department

Found: Despite the severity of these crimes, the true scale and impact of mod ern slavery often goes unrecognised

Found: An application must first be made, by the applicant, to the Ministry of Defence, who will decide if

Found: or military barracks, or if the building contains any living accommodation provided by the Ministry of Defence

Found: or military barracks, or if the building contains any living accommodation provided by the Ministry of Defence

Found: Offshore Wind or Onshore Wind; and (ii) a Radar Mitigation Scheme Agreement is in effect, the Ministry of Defence

Found: Offshore Wind or Onshore Wind; and (ii) a Radar Mitigation Scheme Agreement is in effect, the Ministry of Defence

Found: nations represented on this mission include: Norway, Sweden, Finland, the Netherlands, and Latvia DBT and MOD

Found: From: Senior Salaries Review Body , Office for the Pay Review Bodies, Cabinet Office, Ministry of Defence

Found: In evidence, with the exception of the Ministry of Defence (MoD), individual departments indicated

Found: areas for improvement that were identified through the project are addressed, a fully functioning DT mod

Found: consideration had been filed for the acquisition of the land by Project Blue (“PBL”) from the Ministry of Defence

Found: While the initiative is being led by the Ministry of Defence (MOD), the council of RFCAs, regional RFCAs

Found: four-star award was given in recognition of outstanding work in support of Strategic Command and wider-MOD

Found: was announced in May 2025 and is being overseen by the Office for Veterans’ Affairs in the Ministry of Defence

Found: the United Kingdom Special Forces (UKSF), either directly or in a support role, you must contact the MOD

Found: From: Armed Forces' Pay Review Body, Ministry of Defence and Office for the Pay Review Bodies Published

Found: The Ministry of Defence (MOD) explained that, taking account of average working hours, the Initial Pay

Found: In evidence, with the exception of the Ministry of Defence (MoD), individual departments indicated

Found: From: Senior Salaries Review Body , Office for the Pay Review Bodies, Cabinet Office, Ministry of Defence

Found: brings together the core organisations of the Defence Nuclear Organisation (DNO) within the Ministry of Defence

Found: From: Ministry of Defence, Defence Nuclear Organisation and The Rt Hon John Healey MP Published 22

Found: Our work is amongst the most complex of challenges undertaken by the Ministry of Defence (MOD).

Found: From: Submarine Delivery Agency and Ministry of Defence Published 22 May 2025 Get emails

Found: Service Bulletin (SB) SB001-FA5000 which installed software part number 840-E5498-12 (referred to as ‘MOD

Found: Mod Pathol 2020; 33:871– 879. Modern Pathology. 2021;34(5):1031-2. 10. Cancer Research UK.

Found: Regulatory Agency MET UP UK Middlesex University Milton Keynes Hospital NHS Foundation Trust Ministry of Defence

Found: birth defects Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency Merck Sharp & Dohme UK Ltd Ministry of Defence

Found: Sensitivity Assessment MarLIN The Marine Life Information Network MCZ Marine Conservation Zone MOD

Found: of Birds Scotland (“RSPB”) • UK Government (DESNZ, Maritime and Coastguard Agency (“MCA”), Ministry of Defence

Found: Ministry of Defence (MOD) strategic interests relevant to Scotland are: • The retainment of the capability

Found: socio-economic risks identified for the West region are: • Disruption and displacement of Ministry of Defence

Found: Ayrshire Council • Visit Scotland Tend to oppose No position Tend to support • Crown Estate Scotland • MOD

Found: Communities for Afghans UKG Scheme, use of Cameron Barracks (MoD involvement) and future resettlement

Question

What representations has the Welsh Government made to the UK Government about making the position of Veterans' Commissioner for Wales a permanent appointment?

Answered by Cabinet Secretary for Transport and North Wales

The Veterans’ Commissioner for Wales is appointed and funded by the UK Government. I have met with the Minister for Veterans and People within the Ministry of Defence on three occasions in the last year and I have been clear in my view that the role provides an important voice for raising Veterans’ issues in Wales.