Oral Answers to Questions Debate

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Department: Ministry of Defence

Oral Answers to Questions

Wayne David Excerpts
Monday 14th November 2011

(12 years, 5 months ago)

Commons Chamber
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Lord Hammond of Runnymede Portrait Mr Hammond
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Again, my hon. Friend is absolutely right. This is something that we do not need and cannot afford, and that would be damaging to our overall military capability.

Wayne David Portrait Mr Wayne David (Caerphilly) (Lab)
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The Anglo-French defence accord has been a success, but let us not forget that it was largely negotiated under the previous Government. May I ask this Government whether other agreements are being discussed with other member states of the European Union?

Lord Hammond of Runnymede Portrait Mr Hammond
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On Wednesday I am going to meet my Nordic and Baltic counterparts, and I have already had discussions with my Italian counterpart. It will be the Government’s policy to seek bilateral arrangements with other European allies where it is appropriate and in the interests of both parties to collaborate.