Defence Funding

Debate between Lord Pitt-Watson and Lord Bishop of Leicester

Thursday 17th September 2026 Lords Chamber

[Lord Pitt-Watson (Lab)]

I think the reference to private companies and what defence spending can do for the economy is very important. If I have my figures right, the additional investment we will be making will create 60,000 more jobs in the private sector. So we are aware of this important point and I thank the noble and gallant Lord.

[The Lord Bishop of Leicester]

My Lords, the best causally identified route of the rise of populist parties and extremist groups in this country is poverty, alongside deindustrialisation, austerity and perceived community decline. Does the Minister agree that the duty of a Government to protect their citizens includes protecting them from internal threats as well as external ones?