Oral Answers to Questions Debate

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Department: Ministry of Defence

Oral Answers to Questions

Julian Lewis Excerpts
Monday 27th November 2017

(6 years, 11 months ago)

Commons Chamber
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Gavin Williamson Portrait Gavin Williamson
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What we have in our national security and capability review is the opportunity to step back, look at the threats and challenges that face this country, whether it is from cyber or from more conventional threats, and make sure that we have the right resources in place to deliver for our armed forces. That is what I will be looking at. I am looking forward to meeting the Chancellor as well as many others and having those discussions going forward.

Julian Lewis Portrait Dr Julian Lewis (New Forest East) (Con)
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I warmly congratulate my right hon. Friend on taking up office in this vital position. When he speaks to the Chancellor, will he take the opportunity of reminding him that, in the cold war years, we spent 5% of GDP on defence and that now we spend barely 2% of GDP on defence? Perhaps a target nearer to 3% of GDP on defence might prevent our armed forces from being further hollowed out.

Gavin Williamson Portrait Gavin Williamson
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I will always listen intensely and very carefully to the arguments of my right hon. Friend. I have always seen 2% as a base as opposed to a ceiling, and I will certainly take on board his thoughts and comments in discussions going forward.