Oral Answers to Questions Debate

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Department: Ministry of Defence

Oral Answers to Questions

Gagan Mohindra Excerpts
Monday 14th October 2024

(2 days, 9 hours ago)

Commons Chamber
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Luke Pollard Portrait Luke Pollard
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The Government greatly value the contribution that the Gurkhas continue to make in supporting the UK’s security and defence, and we take our responsibility to Gurkha veterans very seriously. The Government remain committed to supporting them and their families during and after their service with the British Army. The Minister for Veterans and People is shortly to meet the ambassador of Nepal and Gurkha veteran representatives to continue that work.

Gagan Mohindra Portrait Mr Gagan Mohindra (South West Hertfordshire) (Con)
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As the Minister will know, the Royal Fleet Auxiliary industrial dispute is putting our national security at risk. Does he think it is a betrayal of our defence that Labour puts generous settlements for their rail paymasters over the small number of seafarers who keep us safe?

Luke Pollard Portrait Luke Pollard
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I think the hon. Gentleman can do better than that, to be honest. It is important that we support not only those who serve in all our forces, but those in the Royal Fleet Auxiliary. Discussions are ongoing to try to resolve the industrial action that started under the last Government, and I want to thank all those who serve in the Royal Navy, in the Royal Fleet Auxiliary and in civilian roles. It is the whole team that matters, and they all matter to this Government.