Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether he has had discussions with veterans charities on the potential issuing of compensation payments to persons formally associated with Irish Republicanism.

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

Neither the Secretary of State for Defence, nor any of his Ministerial team, have had any discussions with veterans charities on the potential issuing of compensation payments to persons formerly associated with Irish Republicanism.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to the Prime Minister's Oral Statement of 25 February 2025 on Defence and Security, Official Report, whether the Defence Industrial Strategy will be included in the National Security Strategy or published separately.

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

This Government is committed to bringing forward a Defence Industrial Strategy which ensures the imperatives of national security, and a high-growth economy are aligned.

The Statement of Intent outlined that the Defence Industrial Strategy will be published in late-Spring 2025.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to the Prime Minister’s Oral Statement of 25 February 2025 on Defence and Security, whether the cost of the Chagos settlement will be funded from the announced rise to 2.5% of GDP for his Department’s budget.

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

The terms of the treaty are still being finalised, once the treaty is finalised it will be put before Parliament for scrutiny in the usual way.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to the Prime Minister's Oral Statement of 25 February 2025 on Defence and Security, Official Report, whether responsibility for the intelligence security services will be moved to his Department.

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

There are no plans for the Ministry of Defence to have responsibility for the intelligence and security services.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what economic assumptions her Department has used to calculate the proposed increase in defence spending of £13.4bn by 2027.

Answered by Darren Jones - Chief Secretary to the Treasury

Economic assumptions are based on independent forecasts provided by the OBR, under the Charter of Budget Responsibility. The next forecast will become available at the Spring Statement on 26 March in the usual way.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether any proportion of the proposed increase in defence spending from 2027 will be spent on providing further military aid to Ukraine.

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

The Government is committed to providing at least £3 billion a year to Ukraine for as long as it takes.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, if he will seek a judicial review of the Clonoe Coroner’s verdict as delivered in the Coroner’s Court in Northern Ireland on 6 February 2025.

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

We owe a great deal of debt to our Armed Forces – the vast majority of those who served in Operation Banner during the Troubles, did so with distinction.

The Government is committed to ensuring that the legacy of the past is addressed sensitively, efficiently, and lawfully. It is important, as we seek to find an agreed way forward, that we recognise the many bereaved families of ex-service personal who continue to seek answers about the circumstances of their loved ones’ death.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment he has made of the effectiveness of the Defence Serious Crime Unit.

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

Assurance for the effective and efficient operation of the Service Justice System is provided by the Service Justice Board, chaired by the Minister for Veterans and People and includes representatives from outside the Service Justice System, such as the Victims’ Commissioner for England and Wales and also non-executive directors. It provides challenge and scrutiny in respect of strategic performance data, including that related to the independent Defence Serious Crime Command and Unit.

Elements of the Service Justice System are also subject to inspection by independent inspectorates. For example, in November 2024 an HM Crown Prosecution Service Inspectorate report on the Service Prosecuting Authority commented positively on the support provided to victims in the Service Justice System and the handling of sexual offences. Later this year, His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS) will conduct an inspection of the Defence Serious Crime Command and Unit.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how many service personnel have been discharged as a result of the Zero Tolerance to Sexual Offences and Sexual Relationships Between Instructors and Trainees policy across Defence.

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

47 Service personnel were discharged under the Zero Tolerance to Unacceptable Sexual Behaviour policy, between its implementation in November 2022 and the end of the most recent reporting period in September 2024. The policy carries with it a presumption of discharge.

56 Service personnel were discharged under the Zero Tolerance to Sexual Offences (Instructor/Trainee Sexual Relationships) policy, between its implementation in July 2022 and the end of the most recent reporting period in September 2024. Discharge is mandatory under this policy.

Defence is committed to preventing unacceptable behaviours from occurring and we have zero tolerance for such behaviour. We are also committed to making the step changes required to create a safe and inclusive environment for all our Service personnel, enabling us to deliver our Defence outputs and enhance our operational effectiveness.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how many service personnel have been discharged as a result of the Zero Tolerance to Unacceptable Sexual Behaviour policy across Defence.

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

47 Service personnel were discharged under the Zero Tolerance to Unacceptable Sexual Behaviour policy, between its implementation in November 2022 and the end of the most recent reporting period in September 2024. The policy carries with it a presumption of discharge.

56 Service personnel were discharged under the Zero Tolerance to Sexual Offences (Instructor/Trainee Sexual Relationships) policy, between its implementation in July 2022 and the end of the most recent reporting period in September 2024. Discharge is mandatory under this policy.

Defence is committed to preventing unacceptable behaviours from occurring and we have zero tolerance for such behaviour. We are also committed to making the step changes required to create a safe and inclusive environment for all our Service personnel, enabling us to deliver our Defence outputs and enhance our operational effectiveness.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to the Prime Minister's Oral Statement of 25 February 2025 on Defence and Security, Official Report, if he will make an estimate of the potential cost to the public purse of the increase in defence spending for financial year (a) 2024-25, (b) 2025-26 and (c) 2026-27.

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

The announced pathway to spending 2.5% of GDP on defence by 2027 has not changed the Ministry of Defence's budgets for 2024-25 and 2025-26 as set out in the Autumn Budget.

His Majesty's Treasury is currently undertaking the second phase of the Spending Review, which will be announced on 11 June 2025. This will set Departmental budgets for three years from 2026-27 for RDEL and four years for CDEL.

The 2.5% commitment will be funded by reductions in ODA to 0.3% of GNI from 2026-27 onwards and does not require the Government to change the spending envelope.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to the Prime Minister's Oral Statement of 25 February 2025 on Defence and Security, Official Report, if he will provide a cost breakdown of the funding announced for defence spending from 2027.

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

The announced pathway to spending 2.5% of GDP on defence by 2027 has not changed the Ministry of Defence's budgets for 2024-25 and 2025-26 as set out in the Autumn Budget.

His Majesty's Treasury is currently undertaking the second phase of the Spending Review, which will be announced on 11 June 2025. This will set Departmental budgets for three years from 2026-27 for RDEL and four years for CDEL.

The 2.5% commitment will be funded by reductions in ODA to 0.3% of GNI from 2026-27 onwards and does not require the Government to change the spending envelope.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to the Prime Minister's Oral Statement of 25 February 2025 on Defence and Security, Official Report, whether there will be an increase in defence spending for financial year 2024-25.

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

The announced pathway to spending 2.5% of GDP on defence by 2027 has not changed the Ministry of Defence's budgets for 2024-25 and 2025-26 as set out in the Autumn Budget.

His Majesty's Treasury is currently undertaking the second phase of the Spending Review, which will be announced on 11 June 2025. This will set Departmental budgets for three years from 2026-27 for RDEL and four years for CDEL.

The 2.5% commitment will be funded by reductions in ODA to 0.3% of GNI from 2026-27 onwards and does not require the Government to change the spending envelope.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to the Prime Minister’s statement of 25 February 2025 on Defence and Security, whether the Strategic Defence Review will include a spending plan which takes into account the planned increased expenditure to 3% in the next Parliament.

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

The conclusions of the Strategic Defence Review (SDR) regarding the roles, capabilities and reforms required by UK Defence to meet the challenges, threats and opportunities of the twenty-first century must be deliverable within the resources available to Defence, which is included in the review terms of reference. This takes account of the commitment to increase spending on defence to 2.5% GDP from April 2027 and the ambition to spend 3% GDP on defence in the next Parliament, as economic and fiscal conditions allow.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to the Prime Minister's Oral Statement of 25 February 2025 on Defence and Security, Official Report, what the planned publication date is for the Strategic Defence Review.

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

The Strategic Defence Review (SDR) is well underway, and the Reviewers are reporting regularly on progress to the Prime Minister, the Chancellor of the Exchequer, and the Secretary of State for Defence. The Reviewers will make their final report to the Prime Minister, the Chancellor of the Exchequer and the Secretary of State in the spring of this year. The Secretary of State will then subsequently report to Parliament.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to the Prime Minister’s statement of 25 February 2025 on Defence and Security, whether any of the 0.2% funding reallocated from the Overseas Development Assistance budget will be used to fund the Chagos settlement.

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

The terms of the treaty and the associated funding arrangements are still being finalised and no decision has been made at this time.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether he plans to conduct an investigation into drone activity over (a) RAF Mildenhall, (b) RAF Feltwell and (c) RAF Lakenheath in November 2024.

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

The use of uncrewed aerial systems around protected areas in the UK causes a risk to life and is illegal. Such activity will be subject to thorough investigation.

The Ministry of Defence Police is leading the investigation into drone activity over RAF sites on behalf of the Ministry of Defence and we continue to work in partnership with our allies and the appropriate civilian authorities.

We take the safety and security of our sites seriously and we maintain robust security measures, including counter-drone capabilities.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to the Prime Minister’s Oral Statement of 25 February 2025 on Defence and Security, whether the Strategic Defence Review will be published separately to the National Security Strategy.

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

The Strategic Defence Review (SDR) is well underway, and the Reviewers are reporting regularly on progress to the Prime Minister, the Chancellor of the Exchequer, and the Secretary of State for Defence. The Reviewers will make their final report in the spring and the Defence Secretary will subsequently report to Parliament. The SDR will feed into the national security strategy which brings together the reviews already commissioned across Government.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to the Prime Minister's Oral Statement of 25 February 2025 on Defence and Security, Official Report, whether the announced increase in defence spending will be used to fund the Chagos settlement.

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

The terms of the treaty and the associated funding arrangements are still being finalised and no decision has been made at this time.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether the Strategic Defence Review will consider the UK's nuclear capability.

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

As stated in the Strategic Defence Review's published Terms of Reference, the Government has a total commitment to the independent UK nuclear deterrent. The Review is considering the efficiency and effectiveness of the nuclear programme.

As a Government we are proud to have a triple lock commitment to the UK's nuclear deterrent. This comprises continuing the construction of four new Dreadnought Class submarines, maintaining the Continuous at Sea Deterrent; and delivery of all future upgrades needed, including the replacement warhead.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, pursuant to the Answer of 5 March 2025 to Question 33516 on Defence: Finance, whether his plan to spend 2.5% of GDP on defence expenditure in the 2026-27 financial year includes expenditure on the intelligence and security services.

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

The Prime Minister has announced that the definition of defence spending will be updated to recognise what our security and intelligence agencies do to boost our security, as well as our military. That, combined with the increase to defence spending, will mean that in 2026-27 the UK will spend 2.6% of GDP on NATO-qualifying defence expenditure.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment he has made of the potential implications for his policies of the decision by the US to pause military aid to Ukraine.

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

Our immediate focus is putting Ukraine in a position of strength and bringing the US and Ukraine together for the benefit of our collective security.

NATO Allies pledged 40 billion Euros in military aid for Ukraine in 2024 and then went on to deliver 50 billion. 60% of that aid to Ukraine last year came from non-US Allies.

The UK will continue to support Ukraine and is stepping up and speeding up its military assistance, spending £4.5 billion on military support for Ukraine this year which is more than ever before. We have also earmarked an additional £2.26 billion contribution under the ERA loan for military spending.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what the planned military aid budget provided by the UK to Ukraine is for the 2025-26 financial year.

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

This Government is committed to providing at least £3 billion a year in military support to Ukraine for as long as it takes.

Additional support is being provided through the UK's contribution to the Extraordinary Revenue Acceleration loans and UK Export Finance guaranteed loans.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what are the (a) economic and fiscal conditions and (b) operational needs required to reach three per cent of GDP on defence expenditure in the next Parliament.

Answered by Darren Jones - Chief Secretary to the Treasury

The Chancellor will continue to set fiscally responsible, credible spending plans to meet this goal, supported by the number one mission of this government – to drive economic growth. Putting a stake in the ground now drives preparation and sends a clear message about prioritising security in an increasingly turbulent world.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, with reference to the Prime Minister's Oral Statement of 25 February 2025 on Defence and Security, Official Report, whether the funding announced for the intelligence and security services will meet the NATO definition of defence expenditure.

Answered by Darren Jones - Chief Secretary to the Treasury

The definition of defence spending will be broadened to include our security and intelligence services, which could have the effect of increasing the GDP percentage of NATO qualifying defence spending in 2027-28 by around an additional 0.1%.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what discussions he has held with international allies regarding Britain’s role in the ARRC, in the context of his attendance at the Munich Security Conference 2025.

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

Headquarters Allied Rapid Reaction Corps (HQ ARRC) provides NATO with a rapidly deployable, flexible HQ that can act as a Joint, Land or Corps HQ for operations and crisis response. The United Kingdom is HQ ARRC’s ‘framework nation’ and British personnel comprise over 60% of its workforce. Located in Gloucester, HQ ARRC is a multinational organisation, with twenty-one NATO and Partner Nations contributing personnel.

While the Secretary of State had a number of engagements with Allies at the Munich Security Conference 2025, he did not specifically discuss Britain’s role in the ARRC during these meetings.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to the Prime Minister's Oral Statement of 25 February 2025 on Defence and Security, Official Report, whether the Strategic Defence Review will report based on a cost envelope of 2.5 per cent of GDP on defence expenditure.

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

The conclusion of the Strategic Defence Review regarding the roles, capabilities and reforms required by UK Defence to meet the challenges, threats, and opportunities of the twenty first century must be deliverable and affordable within the resources available to Defence. This takes account of the commitment to increase spending on defence to 2.5% of GDP, which is included in the Terms of Reference of the Review, and the ambition to reach 3% of GDP in the next Parliament, as economic and fiscal conditions allow.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what discussions he has held with international allies regarding Britain’s role in NATO, in the context of his attendance at the Munich Security Conference 2025.

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

At the Munich Security Conference, the Secretary of State for Defence met with his counterparts from Norway, Sweden, and New Zealand. He also attended a working breakfast, which was attended by a number of Allied Defence Ministers. Earlier in the same week, the Secretary of State attended the NATO Defence Ministers meeting and Ukraine Defence Contact Group in Brussels. In these meetings, the Secretary of State reiterated the Government’s NATO First policy and the UK’s commitment to remaining the leading NATO Ally in Europe.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what steps he is taking to help reduce the number of electrical devices (a) misplaced by and (b) stolen from staff in his Department.

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

The Ministry of Defence takes the security of defence assets very seriously, and we have robust policies and procedures to prevent losses and thefts, including where such devices can be taken and not leaving them unattended. Defence personnel are regularly reminded of their responsibilities to safeguard Defence assets.

Proportionate security controls are used to protect electronic devices according to the classification and nature of the information which the asset can hold.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what discussions he has held with international allies on the appointment of the next Supreme Allied Commander Europe in the context of his attendance at the Munich Security Conference 2025.

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

Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR) is one of NATO’s two strategic commanders and is a post that is traditionally held by the US.

The Secretary of State did not have any specific discussions about the appointment of the next Supreme Allied Commander Europe in the context of his attendance at the Munich Security Conference 2025.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what proportion of the work undertaken on the development of the RCH 155 will be British; and whether this proportion has changed since 5 July 2024.

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

The Mobile Fires Project (MFP), delivering the Remote Controlled Howitzer 155mm (RCH 155), is currently in its Assessment Phase. I am withholding further information relating to the number of RCH 155 platforms being procured as it is commercially sensitive. I can confirm, however, that the number is subject to ongoing commercial negotiations and will also be guided by the outcome of the Strategic Defence Review.

The proportion of work undertaken on the production of RCH 155, including manufacturing workshare, by the United Kingdom and Germany will be subject to contractual arrangements with industry following commercial negotiations. Throughout this process the Department will seek opportunities to maximise the nation’s workshare in support of UK prosperity and realisation of benefits to the Land Industrial Strategy.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how many and what proportion of the RCH 155 will be primarily manufactured in (a) the United Kingdom and (b) Germany.

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

The Mobile Fires Project (MFP), delivering the Remote Controlled Howitzer 155mm (RCH 155), is currently in its Assessment Phase. I am withholding further information relating to the number of RCH 155 platforms being procured as it is commercially sensitive. I can confirm, however, that the number is subject to ongoing commercial negotiations and will also be guided by the outcome of the Strategic Defence Review.

The proportion of work undertaken on the production of RCH 155, including manufacturing workshare, by the United Kingdom and Germany will be subject to contractual arrangements with industry following commercial negotiations. Throughout this process the Department will seek opportunities to maximise the nation’s workshare in support of UK prosperity and realisation of benefits to the Land Industrial Strategy.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what steps he is taking to increase the number of uncrewed land systems in use by the British army.

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

The Army is undergoing a combined programme of work to ensure our Land Forces will have the lethality, protection and mobility to fight and win against any adversary.

There are a number of programmes and projects across the Army actively developing and aiming to deliver uncrewed land system capabilities over the next decade. Project TIQUILA will equip the Royal Artillery with a Brigade-level Uncrewed Aerial System (UAS) capability and remains on track for Initial Operating Capability by May 2025.

Whilst the Army’s modernisation will continue over the next decade with a programme of investment worth billions of pounds, future capability development priorities will be guided by the Strategic Defence Review.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how many Remote Controlled Howitzer 155 mm (RCH 155) he plans to procure; and whether this number has changed since 5 July 2024.

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

The Mobile Fires Project (MFP), delivering the Remote Controlled Howitzer 155mm (RCH 155), is currently in its Assessment Phase. I am withholding further information relating to the number of RCH 155 platforms being procured as it is commercially sensitive. I can confirm, however, that the number is subject to ongoing commercial negotiations and will also be guided by the outcome of the Strategic Defence Review.

The proportion of work undertaken on the production of RCH 155, including manufacturing workshare, by the United Kingdom and Germany will be subject to contractual arrangements with industry following commercial negotiations. Throughout this process the Department will seek opportunities to maximise the nation’s workshare in support of UK prosperity and realisation of benefits to the Land Industrial Strategy.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what the revenues to the Exchequer will be from the application of Inheritance Tax to death in service payments in the (a) 2024-25 financial year and (b) each remaining financial year in this Parliament.

Answered by James Murray - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

Estates of emergency services personnel will benefit from the normal nil-rate bands, reliefs, and exemptions available. For example, the nil-rate bands mean an estate can pass on up to £1 million with no inheritance tax liability and the general rules mean any transfers, including the payment of death benefits, to a spouse or civil partner are fully exempt from inheritance tax. There is also an existing full exemption from inheritance tax when a member of the emergency services dies from an injury sustained, accident occurring, or disease contracted when that person was responding to emergency circumstances. More information is available at www.gov.uk/hmrc-internal-manuals/inheritance-tax-manual/ihtm11291.

The Government will bring most unused pension funds and death benefits payable from a pension into a person’s estate for inheritance tax purposes from 6 April 2027. Inheritance tax is already applied to death in service benefits for some pension schemes.

The expected revenue from reforms to the inheritance tax treatment of unused pension funds and death benefits was set out at Autumn Budget 2024. A specific breakdown of the expected revenue from different forms of death benefits is not readily available.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, whether the application of inheritance tax to death in service payments will apply to (a) fire, (b) police service and (c) any other emergency service payments.

Answered by James Murray - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

Estates of emergency services personnel will benefit from the normal nil-rate bands, reliefs, and exemptions available. For example, the nil-rate bands mean an estate can pass on up to £1 million with no inheritance tax liability and the general rules mean any transfers, including the payment of death benefits, to a spouse or civil partner are fully exempt from inheritance tax. There is also an existing full exemption from inheritance tax when a member of the emergency services dies from an injury sustained, accident occurring, or disease contracted when that person was responding to emergency circumstances. More information is available at www.gov.uk/hmrc-internal-manuals/inheritance-tax-manual/ihtm11291.

The Government will bring most unused pension funds and death benefits payable from a pension into a person’s estate for inheritance tax purposes from 6 April 2027. Inheritance tax is already applied to death in service benefits for some pension schemes.

The expected revenue from reforms to the inheritance tax treatment of unused pension funds and death benefits was set out at Autumn Budget 2024. A specific breakdown of the expected revenue from different forms of death benefits is not readily available.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what discussions he has held with international allies regarding Britain’s role in the Joint Expeditionary Force, in the context of his attendance at the Munich Security Conference 2025.

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

The UK is the framework nation for the Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF). Since the Munich Security Conference, the Secretary of State has discussed the JEF with his Norwegian counterpart during a visit to Norway from 19 - 20 February 2025 and at a meeting of JEF Defence Ministers by VTC on 27 February 2025. The Secretary of State will also host a meeting of JEF Defence Ministers in London on 26 March 2025. Additionally, I discussed matters relating to JEF on visits to Finland, Lithuania, Denmark and the Netherland last week.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment he has made of the potential implications for his policies of the decision by the US Defence Secretary to suspend (a) operations and (b) planning for offensive cyber operations against Russia.

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

The Ministry of Defence maintains a close security partnership with US counterparts. While the UK’s offensive cyber capabilities remain essential to both its and partner nations national security, I hope the hon. Gentleman will recall from his time as a Minister in the Department that we do not comment on operational matters.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what plans his Department has to commemorate the 80th anniversary of Victory in Japan.

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

The Department for Culture Media and Sport (DCMS) is the cross-Government lead for events commemorating the 80^th anniversaries of Victory in Europe (VE) Day and Victory over Japan (VJ) Day. The Ministry of Defence (MOD) is working closely with DCMS colleagues to support the national programme of events for both anniversaries.

On 5 May over 800 members of the Armed Forces will process up The Mall, culminating in a flypast over Buckingham Palace with current and historical military aircraft including the RAF Aerobatic team ‘The Red Arrows’. On 6 May, the MOD will support the Poppy Installation launch at the Tower of London with a military Band. On 8 May, VE Day, the MOD will provide senior Defence representation and musical support for the Thanksgiving Service at Westminster Abbey. In the evening the MOD will provide musical support as part of the VE concert on Horse Guards Parade.

To commemorate VJ Day, an event will be held at the National Memorial Arboretum which the MOD will support with senior representation and military assets.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what plans his Department has to commemorate the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe.

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

The Department for Culture Media and Sport (DCMS) is the cross-Government lead for events commemorating the 80^th anniversaries of Victory in Europe (VE) Day and Victory over Japan (VJ) Day. The Ministry of Defence (MOD) is working closely with DCMS colleagues to support the national programme of events for both anniversaries.

On 5 May over 800 members of the Armed Forces will process up The Mall, culminating in a flypast over Buckingham Palace with current and historical military aircraft including the RAF Aerobatic team ‘The Red Arrows’. On 6 May, the MOD will support the Poppy Installation launch at the Tower of London with a military Band. On 8 May, VE Day, the MOD will provide senior Defence representation and musical support for the Thanksgiving Service at Westminster Abbey. In the evening the MOD will provide musical support as part of the VE concert on Horse Guards Parade.

To commemorate VJ Day, an event will be held at the National Memorial Arboretum which the MOD will support with senior representation and military assets.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what estimate she has made of the amount of interest accrued from frozen Russian assets that has been used to provide military aid to Ukraine.

Answered by Emma Reynolds - Economic Secretary (HM Treasury)

The Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation (OFSI), part of HM Treasury, published in its 2022-2023 Annual Review that between February 2022 and October 2023, £22.7 billion in frozen funds had been reported to OFSI in relation to the Russia sanctions regime. This is an aggregate figure as to not disclose the value of any funds held by particular designated persons or entities and is a cumulative total of assets report.

Interest accrued on frozen assets is still subject to an asset freeze to be frozen immediately by the person in possession or control of them, but there is no change in ownership of the frozen funds or economic resources, and they are not transferred to HM Treasury. As there is no obligation for a relevant institution to inform OFSI when it has credited interest to a frozen account, OFSI does not hold this information.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, if she will make an estimate of the value of unallocated interest from assets frozen as part of the Government’s support for Ukraine.

Answered by Emma Reynolds - Economic Secretary (HM Treasury)

The Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation (OFSI), part of HM Treasury, published in its 2022-2023 Annual Review that between February 2022 and October 2023, £22.7 billion in frozen funds had been reported to OFSI in relation to the Russia sanctions regime. This is an aggregate figure as to not disclose the value of any funds held by particular designated persons or entities and is a cumulative total of assets report.

Interest accrued on frozen assets is still subject to an asset freeze to be frozen immediately by the person in possession or control of them, but there is no change in ownership of the frozen funds or economic resources, and they are not transferred to HM Treasury. As there is no obligation for a relevant institution to inform OFSI when it has credited interest to a frozen account, OFSI does not hold this information.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, if she will make an estimate of the annual amount of interest accrued on all assets frozen by the Government in relation to the war in Ukraine.

Answered by Emma Reynolds - Economic Secretary (HM Treasury)

The Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation (OFSI), part of HM Treasury, published in its 2022-2023 Annual Review that between February 2022 and October 2023, £22.7 billion in frozen funds had been reported to OFSI in relation to the Russia sanctions regime. This is an aggregate figure as to not disclose the value of any funds held by particular designated persons or entities and is a cumulative total of assets report.

Interest accrued on frozen assets is still subject to an asset freeze to be frozen immediately by the person in possession or control of them, but there is no change in ownership of the frozen funds or economic resources, and they are not transferred to HM Treasury. As there is no obligation for a relevant institution to inform OFSI when it has credited interest to a frozen account, OFSI does not hold this information.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what the value is of assets frozen as part of the Government’s support for Ukraine.

Answered by Emma Reynolds - Economic Secretary (HM Treasury)

The Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation (OFSI), part of HM Treasury, published in its 2022-2023 Annual Review that between February 2022 and October 2023, £22.7 billion in frozen funds had been reported to OFSI in relation to the Russia sanctions regime. This is an aggregate figure as to not disclose the value of any funds held by particular designated persons or entities and is a cumulative total of assets report.

Interest accrued on frozen assets is still subject to an asset freeze to be frozen immediately by the person in possession or control of them, but there is no change in ownership of the frozen funds or economic resources, and they are not transferred to HM Treasury. As there is no obligation for a relevant institution to inform OFSI when it has credited interest to a frozen account, OFSI does not hold this information.

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

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, if she will make an assessment on the potential impact of a planning authority being subsumed into a new unitary authority as part of local government reorganisation on housing number targets.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

Local planning authorities are expected to use the government's revised standard method to assess housing needs. This is a starting point used by councils to inform the preparation of their local development plans.

The government is clear all local planning authorities should continue work on local plans and get them in place as soon as possible.

The implications of local government reorganisation, including the impact of reorganisation on local housing targets, will be considered in light of the specific circumstances of any given area. Local plans should still be progressed in all areas, as they will act as the foundation for any new plans as required.

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

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, whether the legal status of (a) Local Plans and (b) Neighbourhood Plans will be impacted in circumstances where the planning authority in question is subsumed into a new unitary authority as part of local government reorganisation.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

The legal status of local plans and neighbourhood plans is not impacted by local government reorganisation. Where reorganisation occurs, existing local and neighbourhood plans remain in force as part of the development plan for their area until they are replaced by new local or neighbourhood plans.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how many draft versions of the Strategic Defence Review he has received from Lord Robertson.

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

The Strategic Defence Review is advanced as the Prime Minister has said. The Review, which will be published in the spring, will help set the path for Britain's defence for the next decade.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment he has made of the effectiveness of the Military Aviation Authority in increasing the testing of uncrewed systems.

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

The Military Aviation Authority (MAA) as the air safety regulator for the Defence Air Environment sets the regulatory framework for Uncrewed Air System (UAS) Test and Evaluation (T&E) but does not own, direct or deliver any UAS T&E activity.

In support of the Ministry of Defence’s uncrewed ambitions, over the past five years the MAA has reorganised, upskilled and developed an updated and flexible approach to certification and regulation of UAS.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether he has considered adapting the Military Aviation Authority for uncrewed testing.

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

The Military Aviation Authority (MAA) as the air safety regulator for the Defence Air Environment sets the regulatory framework for Uncrewed Air System (UAS) Test and Evaluation (T&E) but does not own, direct or deliver any UAS T&E activity.

In support of the Ministry of Defence’s uncrewed ambitions, over the past five years the MAA has reorganised, upskilled and developed an updated and flexible approach to certification and regulation of UAS.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, assessment he has made of the preparedness of the Military Aviation Authority for uncrewed testing.

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

The Military Aviation Authority (MAA) as the air safety regulator for the Defence Air Environment sets the regulatory framework for Uncrewed Air System (UAS) Test and Evaluation (T&E) but does not own, direct or deliver any UAS T&E activity.

In support of the Ministry of Defence’s uncrewed ambitions, over the past five years the MAA has reorganised, upskilled and developed an updated and flexible approach to certification and regulation of UAS.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether the Military Aviation Authority is fully optimised for uncrewed testing.

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

The Military Aviation Authority (MAA) as the air safety regulator for the Defence Air Environment sets the regulatory framework for Uncrewed Air System (UAS) Test and Evaluation (T&E) but does not own, direct or deliver any UAS T&E activity.

In support of the Ministry of Defence’s uncrewed ambitions, over the past five years the MAA has reorganised, upskilled and developed an updated and flexible approach to certification and regulation of UAS.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether any new orders have been placed as part of the Next Generation Munitions Solution agreement since 5 July 2024.

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

This information is being withheld for the purpose of safeguarding national security.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether he has placed any new orders for 155mm shells since 5 July 2024.

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

This information is being withheld for the purpose of safeguarding national security.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to the oral statement of the Prime Minister of 25 February 2025 on Defence and Security, Official Report, column 631, whether it remains his policy to proceed with the decommissioning of (a) HMS Albion and (b) HMS Bulwark.

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

All named ships remain scheduled for decommissioning in line with the Secretary of State’s announcement of 20 November 2024.

We continue to invest in the capabilities needed to meet current and future operational requirements. This will see the introduction of the Type 26 and Type 31 Frigates, the Multi-Role Support Ships, and the Fleet Solid Support Ships.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to the Oral Statement by the Prime Minister of 25 February 2025 on Defence and Security, Official Report, column 631, whether he plans to proceed with the decommissioning of (a) RFA Wave Knight and (b) RFA Wave Ruler.

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

All named ships remain scheduled for decommissioning in line with the Secretary of State’s announcement of 20 November 2024.

We continue to invest in the capabilities needed to meet current and future operational requirements. This will see the introduction of the Type 26 and Type 31 Frigates, the Multi-Role Support Ships, and the Fleet Solid Support Ships.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to the Prime Minister’s oral statement on Defence and Security of 25 February 2025, Official Report, column 631 whether he plans to proceed with the decommissioning of HMS Northumberland.

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

All named ships remain scheduled for decommissioning in line with the Secretary of State’s announcement of 20 November 2024.

We continue to invest in the capabilities needed to meet current and future operational requirements. This will see the introduction of the Type 26 and Type 31 Frigates, the Multi-Role Support Ships, and the Fleet Solid Support Ships.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what his Department's target is for direct SME spending in the 2024-25 financial year.

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

The Ministry of Defence (MOD) is committed to publishing the target for direct SME spending by June this year.

The target, covering the period up to 2028, will be challenging but achievable and will be significantly above the current level of MOD direct spending with SMEs of 4% (£1.3 billion annually) in Financial Year 2023-24. Every 1% increase would mean over £250 million of additional direct MOD spending with SMEs annually.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how many 155mm artillery shells were manufactured in the UK (a) between 11 July 2023 and 4 July 2024 and (b) since 5 July 2024.

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

This information is being withheld for the purpose of safeguarding national security.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how many 30mm cannon rounds were manufactured in the UK (a) between 11 July 2023 and 4 July 2024 and (b) since 5 July 2024.

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

This information is being withheld for the purpose of safeguarding national security.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how many 5.56mm rifle rounds were manufactured in the UK (a) between 11 July 2023 and 4 July 2024 and (b) since 5 July 2024.

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

This information is being withheld for the purpose of safeguarding national security.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how many 9mm rounds were manufactured in the UK (a) between 11 July 2023 and 4 July 2024 and (b) since 5 July 2024.

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

This information is being withheld for the purpose of safeguarding national security.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how many 7.62mm rounds were manufactured in the UK (a) between 11 July 2023 and 4 July 2024 and (b) since 5 July 2024.

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

This information is being withheld for the purpose of safeguarding national security.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, when he expects to appoint a permanent National Armaments Director.

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

The National Armaments Director will ensure the Armed Forces are properly equipped to defence Britain, to build up the British defence industry and to crack down on waste.

The recruitment process for the role has begun, with a search for candidates underway.

The new National Armaments Director will take up the role once the appropriate notice period from any previous employment has been served.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what proportion of the workshare on M270 MLRS will be British; and whether this figure has changed since 5 July 2024.

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

The UK workshare for the M270 Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) and Repair and Recovery Variant (RRV) equates to approximately 6% of the total value in question. These figures have not changed since 5 July 2024.

The UK currently has 61 M270 MLRS launchers and eight Repair and Recovery Vehicles (RRV) on order with the US Department of Defense. The MOD is currently considering the procurement of a further 15 MLRS and one RRV.

Following the initial replenishment contract for M31 Guided Multiple Launch Rocket Systems (GMLRS), a subsequent investment of £800 million for GMLRS and Extended Range GMLRS (ER-GMLRS) missiles over 10 years has been committed for the procurement of missiles. The stockpile number remains classified.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how many M270 MLRS he plans to recondition; and whether this figure has changed since 5 July 2024.

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

The UK workshare for the M270 Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) and Repair and Recovery Variant (RRV) equates to approximately 6% of the total value in question. These figures have not changed since 5 July 2024.

The UK currently has 61 M270 MLRS launchers and eight Repair and Recovery Vehicles (RRV) on order with the US Department of Defense. The MOD is currently considering the procurement of a further 15 MLRS and one RRV.

Following the initial replenishment contract for M31 Guided Multiple Launch Rocket Systems (GMLRS), a subsequent investment of £800 million for GMLRS and Extended Range GMLRS (ER-GMLRS) missiles over 10 years has been committed for the procurement of missiles. The stockpile number remains classified.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how many Guided Multiple Launch Rocket Systems he has ordered since 5 July 2024.

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

The UK workshare for the M270 Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) and Repair and Recovery Variant (RRV) equates to approximately 6% of the total value in question. These figures have not changed since 5 July 2024.

The UK currently has 61 M270 MLRS launchers and eight Repair and Recovery Vehicles (RRV) on order with the US Department of Defense. The MOD is currently considering the procurement of a further 15 MLRS and one RRV.

Following the initial replenishment contract for M31 Guided Multiple Launch Rocket Systems (GMLRS), a subsequent investment of £800 million for GMLRS and Extended Range GMLRS (ER-GMLRS) missiles over 10 years has been committed for the procurement of missiles. The stockpile number remains classified.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether he is taking steps to allow SMEs greater access to ranges owned by his Department for the testing of uncrewed systems.

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

Access to the training estate is already permitted for the testing of uncrewed systems, where does this does not impact upon Military Use.

Any use of uncrewed systems would be subject to the issue of a Defence Infrastructure Organisation licence. Every request for third party use of the estate is managed through this process.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, when the Defence SME Hub will be fully operational.

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

Planning for the establishment of the Defence Small and Medium Enterprise Support Hub has already started. The detail of how the hub will operate be developed in close consultation with industry and wider stakeholders, including companies outside of the existing defence sector. Further detail will be outlined in due course.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how many and what proportion of Boxer armoured vehicles will be primarily manufactured in (a) the United Kingdom and (b) Germany.

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

The Trinity House Agreement, a defence cooperation agreement between the UK and Germany, was signed in October 2024 and aims to deepen defence cooperation across all domains. As a direct consequence of this agreement, 60% of the original production contract for Boxer is planned to come from the UK, with the additional 40% of production continuing to come from Germany. The first UK manufactured BOXER platform was unveiled at the International Armoured Vehicle conference in January 2025.

Whilst the Army’s modernisation will continue over the next decade with a programme of investment worth billions of pounds, future capability development priorities will be guided by the Strategic Defence Review.

Current plans see Defence procuring 623 BOXER vehicles, this has not changed since July 2024.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how many Boxer armoured vehicles he plans to procure; and whether this figure has changed since 5 July 2024.

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

The Trinity House Agreement, a defence cooperation agreement between the UK and Germany, was signed in October 2024 and aims to deepen defence cooperation across all domains. As a direct consequence of this agreement, 60% of the original production contract for Boxer is planned to come from the UK, with the additional 40% of production continuing to come from Germany. The first UK manufactured BOXER platform was unveiled at the International Armoured Vehicle conference in January 2025.

Whilst the Army’s modernisation will continue over the next decade with a programme of investment worth billions of pounds, future capability development priorities will be guided by the Strategic Defence Review.

Current plans see Defence procuring 623 BOXER vehicles, this has not changed since July 2024.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, if (a) his Department and (b) Ofgem will make an estimate of the cost of the (i) sealing end compounds and (ii) other costs associated with the construction of the (A) underground and (B) other sections of National Grid’s proposed Norwich to Tilbury route.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

It is the responsibility of the developers of electricity network projects – in this case National Grid Electricity Transmission (NGET) - to propose the route and obtain planning permission for that route. NGET presented cost estimates for the Norwich to Tilbury proposals in their April 2024 Strategic Options Backcheck and Review.

Ofgem reviews proposed project costs and ensures that network companies spend efficiently. Electricity network reinforcements are only approved where they are in the interests of consumers and help reduce system costs. Ofgem will conduct a detailed cost assessment of this project for the Accelerated Strategic Transmission Investment Project Assessment stage.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to the Prime Minister’s Oral Statement of 25 February 2025 on Defence and Security, Official Report, columns 361-364, whether he will extend any contacts for the lead members of the Strategic Review team beyond their original termination date.

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

The external review team continue to support the Government in delivering this crucial piece of work. The Strategic Defence Review-which will be published in the Spring-will ensure the United Kingdom is both secure at home and strong abroad, now and for the years to come.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment he has made of the potential (a) size and (b) scale of a British peacekeeping force for Ukraine.

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

We are not going to get into any further details at this stage, our focus is on ensuring Ukraine is in as strong a position as possible. We will continue our dialogue with allies to secure a path to a lasting peace in Ukraine.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether he has had discussions with Cabinet colleague on the potential deployment of British peacekeeping forces in Ukraine.

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

The Secretary of State regularly holds discussions with his Cabinet colleagues on the war in Ukraine and how we can continue to best support Ukraine going forward.

We are not going to get into any further details at this stage and our focus is on ensuring Ukraine is in as strong a position as possible. When, how and on what terms this war comes to an end can only be decided by negotiations with Ukraine at the heart of them.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, wheat information his Department holds on the number of (a) computers, (b) USBs, (c) phones and (d) laptops used by MOD staff have been (i) misplaced or (ii) stolen since 5 July 2024.

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

The Ministry of Defence takes the security of its devices seriously and requires all losses and thefts to be reported.

The figures for the period requested are:

It is important to note that not all the above incidents have resulted in actual losses or thefts. There are occasions where devices couldn't be accounted for, so were reported, but have subsequently been found.

The number of phones misplaced, lost or stolen is high due to 2 incidents being submitted by one art of Defence regarding the mustering of assets.

Although it appears likely that the cause is poor accounting, the phones are still recorded here.

The discrepancy came to light following the strengthening of mobile device accounting processes within that organisation, which will ensure improved record keeping and improve utilisation of these devices in future, with associated costs and wastage minimised.

Whilst we have seen significant improvements around laptops, due to the accounting errors in relation to phones, we have not seen similar improvements in this area at this time.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether the British Army is currently of appropriate (a) scale and (b) capability to provide a potential peacekeeping force to Ukraine.

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

The UK is ready and willing to contribute to security guarantees to Ukraine Our focus is ensuring Ukraine is in as strong a position as possible. When, how and on what terms this war comes to an end can only be decided by negotiations with Ukraine at the heart of them.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether the proposed increase in defence spending will be a real terms increase of £6bn.

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

The Government's commitment to increase defence investment to 2.5% of GDP by 2027 will result in a £13.4 billion increase to defence spending in cash terms in 2027-28 compared to 2024-25.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, which countries his Department classifies as threats with regards to offensive cyber operations.

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

The Ministry of Defence works closely with HMG partners to monitor, understand and counter the cyber threat to the UK from hostile states and organised criminals. In the last year, disruptive cyber activities against the UK and its partners have been attributed to Russian and Chinese state-affiliated actors; others based in Iran and North Korea also remain a threat to the UK.