Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what discussions he has had with his Cabinet Office colleagues on publishing the Defence Investment Plan during a period of purdah.

We will publish the Defence Investment Plan (DIP) as soon as possible. It is essential that we take the time required to ensure decisions are robust and support the transformation of the Armed Forces outlined in the Strategic Defence Review. Once finalised, the DIP will be laid before Parliament in accordance with the appropriate Parliamentary procedures. As always, the Government will adhere to pre‑election period restrictions.