Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether he has had discussions with his Turkish counterpart on the applications of (a) Finland and (b) Sweden to join NATO.

The UK is clear that having Sweden and Finland in the Alliance will increase our shared security. Our solidarity declarations signed with Sweden and Finland earlier this month by the Prime Minister demonstrate our steadfast and unequivocal commitment to both countries during their NATO membership process and beyond. At this time more than any, it is key we reinforce the unity of the Alliance. The UK hopes accession talks reach a rapid conclusion, to integrate Sweden and Finland into the Alliance quickly, and we hope that Sweden and Finland will attend next month's Madrid Summit as NATO Invitees.

The UK values its close alliance with Turkey as an integral part of NATO, we are clear that the strength of NATO as a whole is best served by facilitating the accession of Sweden and Finland as soon as possible, while addressing Turkey's valid security concerns. The UK is clear that Turkey has a right to defend itself against terrorism and we regularly discuss these matters and other matters of NATO importance with Turkey. We continue to discuss the Finnish and Swedish applications with NATO Allies, including Turkey. The Secretary of State for Defence has engaged directly with his Turkish opposite number and plans to meet him for further discussions in the near future.