Covid-19: Military Operations and Support

Lord Bhatia Excerpts

Thursday 10th September 2020 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Goldie (Con)]

I know the noble Lord is anxious to draw me on some specifics, but he will not be surprised to learn that I am not going there. The integrated review is under way, and it is a significant and important review. As I explained earlier to the noble Lord, Lord McConnell of Glenscorrodale, we are taking account of all changing circumstances. The objective is to be in a situation with the capability, robust and tested, to meet the challenges of the new age. We are living in a very different age to even 10 years ago with new threats and technologies. The integrated review will take all that into account.

[Lord Bhatia (Non-Afl) [V]]

My Lords, the Army said that it is ready to serve during the Covid-19 pandemic, and it could also support the NHS. Some 4,000 military personnel have been seconded to civil authorities. Can the Minister say whether the Navy or Air Force have also provided any support?

[Baroness Goldie (Con)]

I am going to undertake to write to the noble Lord with more detail. I do not have sufficient information before me to respond to his question.