United Kingdom Military Installations

Tom Gordon Excerpts

Thursday 12th November 2026 Commons Chamber

[Luke Pollard]

I thank the hon. Gentleman for that question because it gives me the opportunity to clearly set out that the relationship we have with the United States is strong and enduring and will remain our No. 1 security partnership. Our armed forces work closely together, strengthening the UK-America relationship and the wider security of NATO. We are seeing an increase in misinformation, especially online. The hon. Gentleman will know that the Prime Minister has set out his intention to create a centre to address misinformation, which was a recommendation of the Foreign Affairs Committee. That is an important part of how we tackle misinformation, but another important part is ensuring that we do not inadvertently share misinformation or give greater emphasis to those people who wish to do us harm. Tackling misinformation online is as important as the base security arrangements—the physical netting around our bases.

[Tom Gordon (Harrogate and Knaresborough) (LD)]

My constituency is home to the Army Foundation College just outside Harrogate. It is an isolated site west of Harrogate, yet we have seen proposals for over 280 homes to be built immediately next to it. Given that the Minister has outlined concerns about the protection of sites and the threats posed to them, what steps is the MOD taking with other Departments and North Yorkshire council on the security and protection of places like the AFC?

[Luke Pollard]

Harrogate plays an important role for our armed forces, and the hon. Member will know what good work takes place there. I am happy to arrange a meeting with the Minister for Veterans and People to discuss Harrogate. We should be aware that right around our country, there are communities next to our bases that care passionately about the security of those bases and actively contribute to it.