Question to the Home Office:

To ask His Majesty's Government whether they intend the replacement of the Border Force cutters to be undertaken via domestic-only procurement.

Progress continues to be made on plans to procure a replacement maritime capability for the Border Security Command.

The procurement schedule has not yet been finalised but we are continuing to engage potential suppliers for future Border Security Command cutters on the basis of a UK-led build, using the Defence and Security provisions within the Procurement Act 2023 where appropriate. This approach is consistent with the government's commitment to back British businesses and a sustainable and successful shipbuilding and maritime technology sector and to ensure value for money and deliverability.

A dynamic UK shipbuilding sector has potential to play a key role in creating and sustaining jobs and in ensuring shared prosperity around the country. The Maritime Capabilities Replacement Programme procurement will require all bidders to deliver social value, with fair work and resilient supply chains identified as key priorities.

My officials are working closely with the National Shipbuilding Office.