⚔️ Oral Answers to Questions

• HMS Albion and HMS Bulwark: The Royal Navy is considering selling HMS Albion and HMS Bulwark to another government before their planned out-of-service dates in 2033 and 2034. Although potential buyers have shown interest, no final decision has been made. Concerns were raised about the economic impact on Plymouth and Devonport dockyard and the potential undervaluation of the ships, considering their previous refits and maintenance costs.

• Defence Spending: The government plans to increase defence spending to 2.5% of GDP in the spring, fulfilling an election promise. Defence spending has already increased by nearly £3 billion for the next year. Discussions with NATO partners, especially the USA, are ongoing regarding increased defence spending amidst escalating global security challenges.

• Armed Forces Pay and Conditions: The government has announced the largest pay rise for the armed forces in over 20 years and initiated a deal to bring 36,000 forces family homes back into public control to enhance service conditions and support family welfare, aiming to improve retention rates.

• Defence Budget and Waste Management: Efforts are being made to tackle wasteful spending within the Ministry of Defence, including the cancellation of a £40 million VIP helicopter deal and a racing car sponsorship. The focus is on efficiently allocating budgets to essential military equipment.

• Undersea Infrastructure Protection: The government is taking strong measures to protect critical undersea infrastructure, including declassifying activities of the Russian spy ship Yantar to underscore the seriousness of the threat. Increased research and development into underwater capabilities are being considered to safeguard national security.

• Armed Forces Recruitment: Initiatives are underway to address the recruitment and retention crisis in the armed forces, including a new fast-track cyber entry program and signing the dyslexia-friendly workplace pledge to ensure inclusivity and high standards.

• Support for Ukraine: The UK remains committed to providing £3 billion annually in military aid to Ukraine for as long as necessary, amidst ongoing conflicts and increased Russian aggression. The UK plans to step up and speed up its support, closely coordinating with other nations.

• Veterans and Death-in-Service Payments: Discussions with the Chancellor of the Exchequer continue regarding the potential removal of taxation on death-in-service payments for armed forces personnel. The government emphasizes its support for veterans and their families following service.

• NATO and US Relations: The Defence Secretary has engaged with the new US Secretary of Defence, emphasizing the need for increased defence spending across NATO to counter global security challenges. A strong commitment to European security and the special relationship with the US was reiterated.

• Afghan Resettlement Programme: Over 30,000 Afghans have been relocated to the UK under resettlement schemes, including those who worked directly with British forces. The programme remains under review to ensure it is not being exploited.

• Diversity and Inclusion in the Armed Forces: Efforts to improve diversity and address challenges faced by minority groups and women in the military are progressing, with initiatives like the Raising our Standards program and reviews to enhance inclusivity and combat discrimination.

• New Medium Helicopter Contract: The evaluation stage for the new medium helicopter contract is ongoing, with a contract award expected later in the year. This is anticipated to bolster the defence sector’s workforce for future projects.

• National Apprenticeships and Defence Sector: National Apprenticeship Week highlighted the importance of apprenticeships in the defence sector, with over 26,000 current apprentices. The government continues to support such programs to build a skilled and future-ready workforce.

The session exhibits a moderate level of disagreement, warranting a rating of 3. This assessment is based on the following observations and examples:

1. Economic Impact of Selling HMS Albion and HMS Bulwark: There is a disagreement between Rebecca Smith and Maria Eagle regarding the economic impact and justification of selling HMS Albion and HMS Bulwark. Rebecca Smith challenges the decision, citing potential undervaluation and economic impacts on Plymouth and Devonport dockyard, as well as the reduction in the Navy’s amphibious capability. Maria Eagle refutes these claims, emphasizing the speculative nature of the figures and defending the sale as part of a plan to make way for future capabilities.

2. Defence Spending Timeline: Disagreement arises in discussions about when the UK will increase defence spending to 2.5% of GDP. John Lamont and Aphra Brandreth question the timeline and priority of this commitment in relation to other governmental deals. John Healey defends the government’s commitment but criticizes the previous government’s plan as an ‘election gimmick.’ This shows a clear disagreement on the timing and legitimacy of the proposed increase.

3. Wasteful Spending: Disputes over wasteful spending and the prioritization of certain expenditures are evident. For instance, Will Stone criticizes the previous administration for wasting money on luxury items while basic equipment needs were unmet, seeking assurance from John Healey that such issues would be addressed. Similarly, Johanna Baxter expresses constituents’ frustration over tax money spent on sponsorship deals. John Healey acknowledges these concerns and details the government’s actions to address wasteful spending,

4. Diego Garcia Deal: A significant disagreement occurs regarding the Chagos Islands/Diego Garcia deal between James Cartlidge and John Healey. Cartlidge challenges the justification and potential threats to satellite communications cited by the Prime Minister, while Healey defends the deal as necessary for long-term security. This involves a direct challenge to the government’s negotiation and spending priorities.

5. Northern Ireland Legacy Legislation: Debates over the treatment of soldiers involved in Northern Ireland evoke strong disagreement. David Davis and Jim Allister criticize what they perceive as the persecution of soldiers and seek government action to protect them, while Luke Pollard acknowledges concerns but states that legal matters limit his ability to comment, highlighting a disconnect in addressing this issue.

These disagreements demonstrate a moderate level of contention in the session, with clear differences in opinions on policy outcomes, priorities, and past government actions. However, the exchanges remain within the bounds of parliamentary debate, without escalating to highly confrontational levels.