Oral Answers to Questions

Sojan Joseph Excerpts

Wednesday 3rd June 2026 Commons Chamber

[Darren Paffey (Southampton Itchen) (Lab)]

3. What assessment he has made of the potential economic impact of the defence growth deal on Northern Ireland.

[Sojan Joseph (Ashford) (Lab)]

4. What assessment he has made of the potential economic impact of the defence growth deal on Northern Ireland.

--- Later in debate ---

[Matthew Patrick]

My hon. Friend is right. Not only are businesses thriving and creating good jobs, but they are protecting us and our allies, including protecting Ukraine from Russian aggression. I am proud of Northern Ireland’s critical role in defending our country and protecting our allies.

[Sojan Joseph]

The Northern Ireland defence sector already makes a substantial contribution to the local economy, supporting well-paid, highly skilled jobs right across the region, with at least 900 jobs directly supported. Does the Minister agree that, as well as benefiting national security, this new investment will benefit the wider economy, including in my Ashford constituency?

[Matthew Patrick]

My hon. Friend is absolutely right. This investment is a win-win-win—we protect ourselves, our allies and our economy, and with that we boost opportunities for people to get good, long-lasting and rewarding jobs.