Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between David Amess and Mark Logan

Monday 7th December 2020 Commons Chamber

[Sir David Amess (Southend West) (Con)]

What steps he is taking to ensure that his Department’s spending supports (a) high-skilled jobs and (b) the wider UK economy.

[Mark Logan (Bolton North East) (Con)]

What steps he is taking to ensure that his Department’s spending supports (a) high-skilled jobs and (b) the wider UK economy.

[The Secretary of State for Defence (Mr Ben Wallace)]

The Ministry of Defence is one of the largest providers of apprenticeships in the United Kingdom, with around 20,000 on a programme at any one time. We are investing in cutting-edge capabilities and research and development with the future combat air system technology initiative, resulting in more than 1,800 highly skilled engineers in 300 companies throughout the UK. The MOD spent £19.2 billion with UK industry and commerce in 2018-19, safeguarding and supporting thousands of jobs throughout the UK.