United Kingdom Military Installations

Monica Harding Excerpts

Thursday 12th November 2026 Commons Chamber

[Madam Deputy Speaker]

I call the Liberal Democrat spokesperson.

[Monica Harding (Esher and Walton) (LD)]

Ministers say that they are serious about bolstering Britain’s defences, that they recognise the once-in-a-generation threats facing our country, and that they are building a more resilient and ready nation. Despite the lofty rhetoric, it feels like our vital military bases are now under daily, immediate and grave threat. There is a gaping chasm between the Government’s language on defence and the action needed to make this country safe and deter our adversaries. That chasm is eroding the trust and confidence of both British citizens and our allies.

This House was promised a comprehensive review of the security of our military bases, but we are still waiting for its outcome. In the light of the recent multiple threats, that delay is unacceptable. Can the Minister confirm when the review will be completed? Will he commit the additional resources needed to accelerate its delivery, and will he outline what immediate steps he is taking to strengthen base security?

[Luke Pollard]

I recognise the seriousness of the situation, so I thank the hon. Lady for the tone of her question. We recognise that the threats to our country are increasing. We have published the strategic defence review, which sets that out very clearly. We have published the defence investment plan, which sets out how we will increase the defence budget and spend it not only on new capabilities, but on our people and bases. We have set out in the defence investment plan £470 million, over four years, to improve base security and base protection. It is difficult to go into the details on the Floor of the House, but I am happy to invite the hon. Lady’s party for a briefing, if that would be useful. We continue to commit resources to support the security of our personnel, both at home and, importantly, when deployed abroad. The work that we are doing to review our base security is ongoing, to ensure we have the right assets, the right people and the right systems in place at all UK bases and those used by our allies.