Oral Answers to Questions

Shailesh Vara Excerpts

Monday 3rd February 2020 Commons Chamber

[Johnny Mercer]

I thank my hon. Friend for her question. I have a specific team within the MOD dedicated to SEND children. I am more than happy to look at her case. We are bringing in legislation for the armed forces covenant. The Prime Minister is absolutely clear that no one should suffer any disadvantage as a result of their military service. That will become law during this Parliament and we will see fewer of these cases going forward.

[Mr Shailesh Vara (North West Cambridgeshire) (Con)]

16. What progress his Department has made on determining a new location for the Red Arrows.

[The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Defence (James Heappey)]

Work on previously announced potential basing options is ongoing. No final decisions have yet been made.

[Mr Vara]

I am most grateful to the Minister for those comments. We in North West Cambridgeshire firmly believe that RAF Wittering would be the ideal new home for the Red Arrows. With that in mind, will he kindly agree to stay in close contact with me throughout this process in case he or his officials require any further information? Of course, I would be happy to have another ministerial meeting if it would help to press our case further.

[James Heappey]

I am grateful for my hon. Friend’s offer of assistance. I assure him that all three potential basing options are still being considered. I would welcome the opportunity to meet him and other interested colleagues in the very near future.