Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Julian Smith and Lindsay Hoyle

Monday 15th December 2025 Commons Chamber

[The Secretary of State for Defence (John Healey)]

During 2025, the Labour Government have been delivering for defence and for Britain, with the largest increase in defence spending since the end of the cold war, the largest level of military support for Ukraine, the largest pay increase for forces personnel in 20 years, the largest investment in forces housing for 50 years, the largest ever British warship deal, and the largest typhoon deal for a generation. We have the strategic defence review to move us to warfighting readiness; the defence industrial strategy to drive defence as an engine for growth across the UK; new defence agreements with the EU, Norway and France; new investment in technology, with Atlantic Bastion, cyber and electromagnetic command and drones; and over 1,000 major new contracts signed. In 2026, we will deliver further. Today, on the eve of Parliament’s Christmas recess, and on behalf of the House, I wish every member of our armed forces—especially those whose service will mean they are separate from their loved ones—a peaceful and safe Christmas.

[Mr Speaker]

I call Antonia Bance. [Interruption.] Sorry, I call Julian Smith. The answer was that long, I had forgotten about him.

[Sir Julian Smith]

I associate myself with the Secretary of State’s remarks about our armed forces having a fantastic Christmas, wherever they are. The strategic defence review talked about the need for a “national conversation” on defence. What steps are the Government taking to support that national conversation, particularly so that our constituents and the population are faced with the trade-offs needed to increase spending on our armed forces?

Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Julian Smith and Lindsay Hoyle

Tuesday 11th November 2025 Commons Chamber

[Mr Speaker]

Reopen Chorley to help you!

[Sir Julian Smith (Skipton and Ripon) (Con)]

16. Whether he plans to bring forward legislative proposals on litigation funding agreements.