Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether he has conducted an assessment of the potential impact of the purchase of F35A and PrSM on the UK's level of reliance on the United States.

The Government assesses that collaborating with the UK's closest defence and security ally on F35A and PrSM will deliver significant capabilities that enhance UK and NATO security.

The Government's approach is to build on the existing close cooperation with the US while also deepening partnerships with other allies and partners. While US-led, the F35 is a multinational programme, including significant UK equities. PrSM is a trilateral partnership with Australia. The Government's approach enables the UK to maximise collective security, strengthen deterrence and advance our national interests in an increasingly contested strategic environment. Collaborating with the US on F35A and PrSM will also benefit UK prosperity and increase supply chain resilience.