Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether he has conducted an assessment of the potential impact of the purchase of F35A and PrSM on the UK's level of reliance on the United States.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)

The Government assesses that collaborating with the UK's closest defence and security ally on F35A and PrSM will deliver significant capabilities that enhance UK and NATO security.

The Government's approach is to build on the existing close cooperation with the US while also deepening partnerships with other allies and partners. While US-led, the F35 is a multinational programme, including significant UK equities. PrSM is a trilateral partnership with Australia. The Government's approach enables the UK to maximise collective security, strengthen deterrence and advance our national interests in an increasingly contested strategic environment. Collaborating with the US on F35A and PrSM will also benefit UK prosperity and increase supply chain resilience.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps her Department is taking to improve (i) rail connectivity and (ii) bus services between Paddock Wood and Brighton.

Answered by Keir Mather - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Government is committed to improving both rail and bus connectivity so that passengers can make reliable, affordable and integrated journeys. Through Better Connected: A Strategy for Integrated Transport, we have set out our vision for a transport system that is safe, reliable, affordable and accessible, while empowering local leaders to shape transport networks that reflect local needs.

Officials work closely with DFTO and Network Rail to ensure timetables are planned that both meet expected passenger demand and provide value for money for the taxpayer. Train operators use their extensive knowledge and expertise to undertake the detailed planning of services.

Looking ahead to Great British Railways, this offers the opportunity to go further with optimising train services and driving up utilisation. Through Great British Railways’ directing mind function, services and timetables will be developed in a coherent fashion that drives up network performance and improves the journey experience.

For bus services, the Government has confirmed more than £3 billion of funding from 2026/27 to support local leaders and bus operators to improve services across England. This includes nearly £700 million per year through the Local Authority Bus Grant, giving local transport authorities greater certainty to plan and improve local transport networks. Decisions on individual bus routes and service levels are generally matters for local transport authorities and operators, which are best placed to determine how services can meet local passenger demand.

Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what assessment she has made of the potential merits of establishing a Limb Loss and Limb Difference Liaison Nurse in every ICB to oversee care coordination.

Answered by James Frith - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department of Health and Social Care)

No such assessment has been made. The Amputee Rehabilitation and Prosthetics Services for People of All Ages with Limb Loss and Limb Difference service specification sets out the minimum standards expected of all services in England including availability of staff. Liaison nurses in integrated care boards are not a national service requirement. The service specification was developed following extensive engagement with patient groups and staff.

Found: Q6 Mike Martin: Thank you all for coming.