0:00:00 > 0:00:01occasion and wishing them all the very best for their future together.
0:00:01 > 0:00:05Order. Questions to the Secretary of State for Defence, Mr Gavin
0:00:05 > 0:00:16Newlands.May I start by congratulating and a half of those
0:00:16 > 0:00:22who worked in our Armed Forces his Royal Highness Prince Harry and his
0:00:22 > 0:00:26engagement to Meghan Markle. Prince Harry has acted as a proud champion
0:00:26 > 0:00:33of service men and women in the Armed Forces. Most notably with his
0:00:33 > 0:00:37commitment to the Invictus Games. I'm sure we would all like to echo
0:00:37 > 0:00:41your words Mr Speaker in wishing them the very best in their shared
0:00:41 > 0:00:49future together. During my first few weeks as Defence Secretary, I've had
0:00:49 > 0:00:54the privilege of being able to join the army on Salisbury Plain, the RAF
0:00:54 > 0:01:00in costs that and the Navy in Devonport. It is truly moving to see
0:01:00 > 0:01:06the dedication and commitment they all show in terms of their work. On
0:01:06 > 0:01:10the eighth and 9th of November I had the opportunity to join fellow Nato
0:01:10 > 0:01:17defence ministers to discuss future Nato command. This is about creating
0:01:17 > 0:01:22a new structure to leave Nato, but as yet the establishment of a
0:01:22 > 0:01:28command for the Atlantic and its location has yet to be decided.I
0:01:28 > 0:01:32thank the Secretary of State for that answer. With Russian submarine
0:01:32 > 0:01:42activity in Scottish waters and just last week the Russian destroyer.
0:01:42 > 0:01:46Given these facts how can the Secretary of State reassure Scots he
0:01:46 > 0:01:51will meet the needs of Scotland which sits in a vital strategic
0:01:51 > 0:01:55position when the command is re-established?The honourable
0:01:55 > 0:01:58gentleman makes an important point about the increased activity of
0:01:58 > 0:02:02Russian submarines in the north Atlantic. I'm sure he would welcome
0:02:02 > 0:02:07the investment that the UK Government is putting in Her
0:02:07 > 0:02:13Majesty's naval base Clyde. £1.5 billion investing in Scotland, 6500
0:02:13 > 0:02:20personnel already based there. That number is going to increase. Nato,
0:02:20 > 0:02:28and what we do in terms of Nato, is absolutely vital. The cornerstone of
0:02:28 > 0:02:33our defence. You have to understand it isn't just about conventional
0:02:33 > 0:02:37warfare and conventional deterrence, it's also about a nuclear deterrent.
0:02:37 > 0:02:42If we don't recognise the fact nuclear weapons have been
0:02:42 > 0:02:46safeguarding our security, then you don't understand what Nato is. I
0:02:46 > 0:02:51very much hope the honourable gentleman will start to welcome not
0:02:51 > 0:02:54just our investment in investment in submarines in Scotland in terms of
0:02:54 > 0:03:00conventional submarines but also nuclear submarines as well.At a
0:03:00 > 0:03:04time when global threats to British interests around the world are
0:03:04 > 0:03:07increasing, with the Secretary of State agree that it might seem
0:03:07 > 0:03:12illogical to have a defence capability review that could
0:03:12 > 0:03:14decrease our capabilities at a time when we need to be doing everything
0:03:14 > 0:03:20we can to increase the fighting power of our Armed Forces?I think
0:03:20 > 0:03:23my honourable friend makes a valuable point in terms of making
0:03:23 > 0:03:28sure we have the right capability for all our Armed Forces. I'm taking
0:03:28 > 0:03:32the opportunity to look at all the work that's been done, and making my
0:03:32 > 0:03:39own judgment as to the best way to go forward on this.Speaker, I'd
0:03:39 > 0:03:43like to extend warm wishes to the happy couple. I can tell you that my
0:03:43 > 0:03:47mother has already asked if she can join me in London on the day of the
0:03:47 > 0:03:51royal wedding. Mr Speaker, I'd like to pay to beat to the Royal Navy
0:03:51 > 0:04:00assets including HMS protector, that have taken part in the search for
0:04:00 > 0:04:03the San Juan. With that in mind let's move from the south to the
0:04:03 > 0:04:07North Atlantic. Can I welcome the Secretary of State on his first
0:04:07 > 0:04:11appearance at the dispatch box. We of course have differences but where
0:04:11 > 0:04:15we can agree on Scotland's interests we will hopefully do so. With that
0:04:15 > 0:04:19in mind and the re-establishment of the Nato command does he agree
0:04:19 > 0:04:25Scotland is ideally placed to host such a command?I have no doubt
0:04:25 > 0:04:29there are many places within the UK that would be brilliant places to
0:04:29 > 0:04:33host such a command and I will be making strong representations with
0:04:33 > 0:04:39all our Nato partners to make sure we get the best deal out of Nato. At
0:04:39 > 0:04:42the moment it is too early to determine whether command is going
0:04:42 > 0:04:47to be but I will be doing everything I can to in this year it is in the
0:04:47 > 0:04:53UK.I understand this will be discussed in February next year. At
0:04:53 > 0:04:56like to point out Scotland is the most northerly nation not to have
0:04:56 > 0:05:00any territory inside the Arctic Circle, it's in a strategic position
0:05:00 > 0:05:05jutting out into Nato's north Atlantic heartland, with access to
0:05:05 > 0:05:12the Icelandic gap. It has unparalleled history in maritime
0:05:12 > 0:05:19aviation... Given what my honourable friend has also said, will he commit
0:05:19 > 0:05:25to further investigating the strong position Scotland is in and taking
0:05:25 > 0:05:29that to Nato?I'm always delighted to explore the many benefits that
0:05:29 > 0:05:34Scotland bring to our union. The fact Scotland is always stronger has
0:05:34 > 0:05:41been part of the United Kingdom than on its own. I welcome the continued
0:05:41 > 0:05:45investment which we do put in Scotland. It's absolutely integral
0:05:45 > 0:05:50to our defence as a nation. But we are always stronger together, and I
0:05:50 > 0:05:53will be happy to look at all the evidence about making sure we
0:05:53 > 0:05:56continue to get the very best investment in Scotland from our
0:05:56 > 0:06:10Armed Forces.Thank you Mr Speaker. I have regular meetings with the
0:06:10 > 0:06:13Chancellor, as yet I'm to have a formal meeting with the Chancellor
0:06:13 > 0:06:16but I'm very much looking forward to doing so to discuss our shared
0:06:16 > 0:06:22future. In
0:06:23 > 0:06:28to the Defence Secretary from 25 of his Conservative colleagues, they
0:06:28 > 0:06:32said "We look forward to the rhetoric being matched in deeds".
0:06:32 > 0:06:35Will the Secretary of State isn't all colleagues from all sides of the
0:06:35 > 0:06:38House and much the government's rhetoric with increased resources
0:06:38 > 0:06:44for our armed services?What we have in terms of our national security
0:06:44 > 0:06:49and capability review is the opportunity to step back, look at
0:06:49 > 0:06:55the threats and challenges that this country faces, whether it is from
0:06:55 > 0:06:59cyber, more conventional threats. And make sure that we have the right
0:06:59 > 0:07:03resources in place so that we can deliver for our Armed Forces. That
0:07:03 > 0:07:06is what I'll be looking at and I'm looking forward to meeting the
0:07:06 > 0:07:11Chancellor as well as many others to have those discussions going
0:07:11 > 0:07:18forward.May I warmly congratulate my right honourable friend on taking
0:07:18 > 0:07:22up office in this vital position. When he does speak to the
0:07:22 > 0:07:26Chancellor, will he take the opportunity of reminding him that in
0:07:26 > 0:07:33the Cold War years we spent 5% of GDP on defence. Now we spend barely
0:07:33 > 0:07:392% of GDP on defence, and perhaps a target nearer to 3% of GDP on
0:07:39 > 0:07:46defence might prevent our Armed Forces being further hollowed out.I
0:07:46 > 0:07:50will always listen intensely and carefully to my right honourable
0:07:50 > 0:07:57friend in terms of his arguments. I've always seen 2% as a base is
0:07:57 > 0:08:00against a ceiling. I will certainly be taking on board his thoughts and
0:08:00 > 0:08:06comments going forward in terms of all discussions that I have.I
0:08:06 > 0:08:11welcome the honourable gentleman to his new post, and welcome to the
0:08:11 > 0:08:17world of Royal defence. A report earlier this year highlighted the
0:08:17 > 0:08:22government committed £24.4 billion to extra equipment but only another
0:08:22 > 0:08:276.4 billion was actually there in new money for BJ SF, four example.
0:08:27 > 0:08:34How is he going to fill but £18 billion black hole in the Budget and
0:08:34 > 0:08:38the basis that both efficiencies and the headroom identified hasn't yet
0:08:38 > 0:08:44been met?What we have is an unparalleled commitment from this
0:08:44 > 0:08:48government to continue increased defence spending in terms of
0:08:48 > 0:08:54equipment. 0.5% above inflation, every single year. We are happy to
0:08:54 > 0:08:57look at all the issues within the National Audit Office report and
0:08:57 > 0:09:01make sure that working with our industrial partners we deliver best
0:09:01 > 0:09:09value for amp -- for our Armed Forces.I would like to welcome my
0:09:09 > 0:09:14constituency neighbour to his place. Training is cute in searing our
0:09:14 > 0:09:19Armed Forces are operationally ready, should they need to be
0:09:19 > 0:09:23mobilised. Could my right honourable friend outline what measures are
0:09:23 > 0:09:30being taken to ensure training is well funded?We offer use to be
0:09:30 > 0:09:36criticised for having the most poorly equipped Armed Forces but the
0:09:36 > 0:09:40best trained Armed Forces. But I hope to ensure in my tenure as
0:09:40 > 0:09:46Secretary of State is we have both the best equipment and the best
0:09:46 > 0:09:51training. Talking to colleagues, ministerial colleagues whether from
0:09:51 > 0:09:56Norway or so many other countries across Europe, they all recognise
0:09:56 > 0:10:00our commitment to training, and that's something we're going to
0:10:00 > 0:10:04continue to invest in going forward, including but the Royal Marines do
0:10:04 > 0:10:11in Norway every single winter.I welcome the Secretary of State to
0:10:11 > 0:10:18his place and I echo his and your good wishes to his Royal Highness
0:10:18 > 0:10:22Prince Harry and Meghan on the engagement. You cannot do security
0:10:22 > 0:10:28on the cheap. With expert after expert highlighting serious gaps in
0:10:28 > 0:10:32defence funding, it was surreal last week to hear the permanent private
0:10:32 > 0:10:36secretary say that the man in charge had made no formal pre-budget
0:10:36 > 0:10:41request to the Chancellor for more money. It's one thing to ask and not
0:10:41 > 0:10:46get, but another not even to bother asking. Did I hear correctly today,
0:10:46 > 0:10:51and with the Secretary of State just confirmed for us, that he actually
0:10:51 > 0:11:02didn't make any representations to the Chancellor before the Budget?
0:11:02 > 0:11:08We have to ensure that we know what the needs for our Armed Forces going
0:11:08 > 0:11:14forward. Now you may wish to rush into things and and demand, what I
0:11:14 > 0:11:19want to do is make sure we have the arguments ready, understand the
0:11:19 > 0:11:23threats that this country faces and make sure that we deliver for our
0:11:23 > 0:11:27Armed Forces. That will be the focus. I have many conversations
0:11:27 > 0:11:30with the Chancellor and I look forward to many more going forward
0:11:30 > 0:11:33to
0:11:33 > 0:11:40forward to many more going forward to.I will take that as a no. This
0:11:40 > 0:11:45is serious, we are hearing that the Marines may be cut by 20% and the
0:11:45 > 0:11:53Marines reduced to -- the Army cuts to 70,000. With ministers in open
0:11:53 > 0:12:01rebellion over cuts, how bad can do things have to get before the
0:12:01 > 0:12:05Secretary of State does his job and tell the Prime Minister and
0:12:05 > 0:12:11Chancellor that enough is enough?I will take many lectures from many
0:12:11 > 0:12:17people but from the party that has led -- that is led by a man that
0:12:17 > 0:12:23does not even believe in the British Army, that does not believe in a
0:12:23 > 0:12:31nuclear deterrent, to be lectured about defence spending is rich. This
0:12:31 > 0:12:36is the party, the Conservative Party, that is making sure that we
0:12:36 > 0:12:43deliver on 2%. We are the party that is making sure that we increase
0:12:43 > 0:12:48defence spending. To have lectures from a party that is led by a man
0:12:48 > 0:12:58that does not even believe in the British Army, I find shocking.Thank
0:12:58 > 0:13:09you. Thank you, Mr Speaker. I am pleased to see that cadets are so
0:13:09 > 0:13:15popular in the chamber. In 2015, the government committed 15 million to
0:13:15 > 0:13:18increase the number of cadets instate schools through the cadet
0:13:18 > 0:13:26expansion programme. This programme is on track to achieve a target of
0:13:26 > 0:13:37500 and cadet units in 2020.The Sea Cadet Corps in Henley has produced
0:13:37 > 0:13:41opportunity for my daughters to have personal development. With the
0:13:41 > 0:13:46Minister agree that it is important to support cadet units instate
0:13:46 > 0:13:51schools, particularly with things like uniforms?Aceh lived the happy
0:13:51 > 0:13:58to agree with my honourable friend. He is right to say that the debt
0:13:58 > 0:14:03units provide life skills and social mobility, often things that schools
0:14:03 > 0:14:09cannot provide. I will pay tribute to the work that the cadet stayed in
0:14:09 > 0:14:14participating in Remembrance Sunday up and down the country.Mr Speaker,
0:14:14 > 0:14:22I was able to see a 119 Scunthorpe Squadron cadets outside the school
0:14:22 > 0:14:26on Sunday. They do fantastic work developing young people and the
0:14:26 > 0:14:31young people and their volunteers are a tribute to all of us. What is
0:14:31 > 0:14:37the government doing to ensure that cadet groups, Army, Navy and Sea
0:14:37 > 0:14:44Cadets, continue to play an important role in our communities?I
0:14:44 > 0:14:47would congratulate the honourable gentleman on visiting his unit and
0:14:47 > 0:14:54may encourage other members to take an opportunity to support our cadet
0:14:54 > 0:14:57programmes up and down the country when they are in their
0:14:57 > 0:15:03constituencies. We have the expansion programme, 126,000 cadets
0:15:03 > 0:15:14supported by 28,000 volunteers, and we are grateful to them.Given the
0:15:14 > 0:15:18report by my honourable friend for Rayleigh and Wickford, would the
0:15:18 > 0:15:25Minister agree that schemes such as the combined cadet scheme in my
0:15:25 > 0:15:30constituency is an excellent idea and encourage others close to adopt
0:15:30 > 0:15:37the programme?Me I commend my honourable friend for understanding
0:15:37 > 0:15:41the challenges that we are facing in recruitment and retention. It is
0:15:41 > 0:15:47absolutely right to say that as a starting point, the cadet programme
0:15:47 > 0:15:51is essential to encourage an open up opportunities in the Armed Forces.
0:15:51 > 0:15:5720% of those who sign up for the cadet go on to become members of the
0:15:57 > 0:16:01Armed Forces and the other 80% have a desire to supporting Armed Forces,
0:16:01 > 0:16:08also welcome.The Combined Cadet Force at my local comprehensive has
0:16:08 > 0:16:13been going for many years now. Young people have been given skills and
0:16:13 > 0:16:17opportunities that they would never have had a chance to access. The
0:16:17 > 0:16:24same goes for the Sea Cadets. But one of the daft thing that the MoD
0:16:24 > 0:16:28did last year was selling a barracks for a paltry sum of money and now we
0:16:28 > 0:16:33need a venue for the Sea Cadets and the Combined Cadet Force to work
0:16:33 > 0:16:38together. Would he have time to visit the Rhondda and look at the
0:16:38 > 0:16:44Combined Cadet Force and the Sea Cadets?I'm not sure how useful I
0:16:44 > 0:16:49would be if I have spare time in the future! I would say that there is an
0:16:49 > 0:16:54Armed Forces rationalisation programme of real estate in the UK.
0:16:54 > 0:17:012% of the land is owned by the MoD. We are rationalising that. It may
0:17:01 > 0:17:04include some locations at the mention but we need to work with
0:17:04 > 0:17:07local authorities and members of Parliament to make sure that cadets
0:17:07 > 0:17:12have a place to go because of the contribution that they make to wider
0:17:12 > 0:17:23society and the Armed Forces in general.Question for, Mr Speaker.
0:17:23 > 0:17:28HMS Queen Elizabeth has returned to Portsmouth after a successful second
0:17:28 > 0:17:33set of the trial. Her commissioning ceremony is planned in the presence
0:17:33 > 0:17:36of Her Majesty the Queen and the handover is planned for the end of
0:17:36 > 0:17:44the year.Does my honourable friend agree with me that a sense of
0:17:44 > 0:17:48urgency has come into this because we are planning a global future for
0:17:48 > 0:17:51ourselves which will require a greater presence around the world
0:17:51 > 0:17:56and with the Royal wedding coming next year, and with the absence of
0:17:56 > 0:18:01the Royal yacht Britannia, the new Princess and Prince will require
0:18:01 > 0:18:06something to sell around the seas with?I certainly was not
0:18:06 > 0:18:11anticipating that line of questioning! But he is absolutely
0:18:11 > 0:18:15right. This new class of aircraft carrier will give a powerful
0:18:15 > 0:18:20expression of national ambition and intent and they are versatile and
0:18:20 > 0:18:25agile ships that will be able to perform a wide range of maritime
0:18:25 > 0:18:34security roles.Can the Minister confirm that the government sees the
0:18:34 > 0:18:37future of Queen Elizabeth when it comes into service as an aircraft
0:18:37 > 0:18:43carrier and not in order to meet defence cuts, replacing amphibious
0:18:43 > 0:18:50landing craft?I am delighted to confirm that not only do we have one
0:18:50 > 0:18:55aircraft carrier, but we have a second aircraft carrier which is now
0:18:55 > 0:19:00structurally complete at Rosyth. Of course there will be adaptations to
0:19:00 > 0:19:05insure that the carriers are able to support the full range of
0:19:05 > 0:19:09helicopters in our fleet, but we have absolutely confirmed that we
0:19:09 > 0:19:14will have a full range of maritime capabilities from these two
0:19:14 > 0:19:22remarkable and adaptable ships.It is going to be essential that we
0:19:22 > 0:19:26have sufficient surface fleet to provide escort capability for the
0:19:26 > 0:19:32carriers. Can the Minister confirm that we will get sufficient of the
0:19:32 > 0:19:39Type 31e frigate. And if possible, they will be made from UK steel?My
0:19:39 > 0:19:47honourable friend is absolutely right and to give contents, one of
0:19:47 > 0:19:52the maritime sustainability tankers has been commissioned into the army.
0:19:52 > 0:19:58There are six Type 45 destroyers. We cut steel on the first eight new
0:19:58 > 0:20:01anti-submarine frigates and we are running a competition for the Type
0:20:01 > 0:20:1131e frigate.HMS Diamond recently had to abandon operations because of
0:20:11 > 0:20:16issues with its propeller. This means that none of the Type 45
0:20:16 > 0:20:21destroyers are currently at sea. Given that the role that they will
0:20:21 > 0:20:27play, what action the government taking the remedy this is you?
0:20:27 > 0:20:31Clearly, there is a limit of what we can comment on in terms of the
0:20:31 > 0:20:36specifics. But I can reassure the honourable gentleman that of course
0:20:36 > 0:20:40as part of our regular. Royal and, we will be regenerating that
0:20:40 > 0:20:46particular capability and that the Royal Navy is able to fulfil all its
0:20:46 > 0:20:53rolls around the world.I will point out to the House that although
0:20:53 > 0:20:56engaging, the exchanges have been slow. There are reporting questions
0:20:56 > 0:21:01on the order paper which I am keen to reach. Let's speed up.Question
0:21:01 > 0:21:17five. The UK Minister of defence and BA E are working to bring forward
0:21:17 > 0:21:26the Hawk aircraft.The importance of a consistent flow of orders to
0:21:26 > 0:21:33maintain a supply chain for Hawk aircraft. Can I verify -- get the
0:21:33 > 0:21:39Minister to clarify, the Minister referred to 12 Hawk aircraft for
0:21:39 > 0:21:49Casado and has this increased from the six Hawk aircraft?-- to Qatar.
0:21:49 > 0:21:55I can confirm that the government is working in every way it can and we
0:21:55 > 0:21:59have orders from the government of Qatar... I can write to the
0:21:59 > 0:22:07honourable gentleman if there is confusion, I thought it was six.Mr
0:22:07 > 0:22:10Speaker, how important are these iconic aircraft in promoting the
0:22:10 > 0:22:19soft power of a global Britain? Well, I know that my honourable
0:22:19 > 0:22:23friend the constituency neighbour will know that the Red Arrows have
0:22:23 > 0:22:27just returned from a very successful tour of the Gulf. Part of what they
0:22:27 > 0:22:31do is support the wonderful export campaigns that the company is
0:22:31 > 0:22:42running.There are 21 RAF officers sitting in the gallery today who are
0:22:42 > 0:22:47due to be deployed this year. I am sure that the whole house wishes
0:22:47 > 0:22:54them well. Ten days ago, we had a debate in this chamber for a new
0:22:54 > 0:23:03defence industrial strategy. Given the jobs that are still vulnerable
0:23:03 > 0:23:11at this factory, Kimi have a defence strategy, please?I am happy to pay
0:23:11 > 0:23:15tribute to the people who are here in the gallery and everything that
0:23:15 > 0:23:20they do. But the honourable lady also is right to keep raising these
0:23:20 > 0:23:25is used and I can assure her that the government is focusing very
0:23:25 > 0:23:34fully on the point is that she has raised.On the day the government is
0:23:34 > 0:23:39launching its industrial strategy, this country is in danger of losing
0:23:39 > 0:23:44its sovereign defence industrial capability, not least in aerospace.
0:23:44 > 0:23:48Can the Minister be specific and tell us what efforts she is making
0:23:48 > 0:23:55to promote additional orders across the world?Nonsense. Mr Speaker, we
0:23:55 > 0:24:03could not be working harder across the globe. We have not only the
0:24:03 > 0:24:07Department for International Trade, we have a fantastic network of
0:24:07 > 0:24:13international Tasha is. I am working tirelessly on behalf of the
0:24:13 > 0:24:19government to support export campaigns around the world as is my
0:24:19 > 0:24:24colleague, the Secretary of State for International Development.
0:24:24 > 0:24:34Number six --.Number six, Mr Speaker.We take cyber attacks raise
0:24:34 > 0:24:41seriously and are taking them seriously. We are investing £5
0:24:41 > 0:24:46million on a programme of cyber fallibility investigations for
0:24:46 > 0:24:50military equipment and building a new investigation centre and making
0:24:50 > 0:24:54sure our people are fully equipped to meet the cyber challenge.Thank
0:24:54 > 0:25:00you Julie Minister for that answer that is the Minister looking at the
0:25:00 > 0:25:04recent Russian activity especially in Ukraine and Crimea, where it is
0:25:04 > 0:25:08clear that cyber warfare has been handing glove with conventional
0:25:08 > 0:25:12warfare. And the initiatives announced today are very welcome but
0:25:12 > 0:25:16does he realise that he have to be speaking to other government
0:25:16 > 0:25:21departments, commercial interests and media interest?The honourable
0:25:21 > 0:25:25gentleman makes a powerful point. I was in the Ukraine recently. This is
0:25:25 > 0:25:31why this has to be a cross government effort and why we are
0:25:31 > 0:25:37spending £1.9 billion on our National Cyber Security Centre G. --
0:25:37 > 0:25:45cyber Security strategy.Recruiting and retaining people of exceptional
0:25:45 > 0:25:51ability and events needs exceptional levels of pay. Can I urge my right
0:25:51 > 0:25:58honourable friend to have this in mind?My honourable friend makes a
0:25:58 > 0:26:02reasonable point. I was at his constituency looking at GCHQ and
0:26:02 > 0:26:08looking at the work that the MOD and GCHQ are carrying out together. That
0:26:08 > 0:26:14is why we are determined to invest in a career structure for cyber
0:26:14 > 0:26:18specialists and will be opening the defence cyber school and the defence
0:26:18 > 0:26:25Academy in Shrivenham in January 20 18.Tweets are cheaper than tanks
0:26:25 > 0:26:29and Russia, Iran and other state and non-state actors are looking to
0:26:29 > 0:26:36cyber and social media as a way of destabilising the West. The Foreign
0:26:36 > 0:26:40Secretary told this out that he had seen no evidence of Russian
0:26:40 > 0:26:49interference in the UK in the referendum, has he?
0:26:49 > 0:26:54There are limits just what we can discuss in this chamber. In this age
0:26:54 > 0:26:58of constant competition, this country is under constant attack
0:26:58 > 0:27:03both through state and non-state actors. This is a defence capability
0:27:03 > 0:27:09which we are determined to continue to invest in.Would he agree a
0:27:09 > 0:27:14trade-off between cyber and conventional capabilities is wrong?
0:27:14 > 0:27:18That the MoD needs to be capable of cyber, conventional and
0:27:18 > 0:27:22non-conventional forms of warfare? And does he agree that further cuts
0:27:22 > 0:27:26to our niche and specialist capabilities will do strategic harm
0:27:26 > 0:27:32to this country? Thank you.I certainly agree this isn't a binary
0:27:32 > 0:27:36choice. It is more of a digital choice as we look forward to further
0:27:36 > 0:27:40on in the 21st century. That's why it is right we are carrying out the
0:27:40 > 0:27:45national security and capability review. As threats intensify across
0:27:45 > 0:27:53the spectrum, we have to invest in them.Mr Speaker, I wonder whether
0:27:53 > 0:28:03the Minister heard BBC Radio 4's profile yesterday of Putin's chef
0:28:03 > 0:28:08and his so-called troll factory in St Petersburg. If he heard it he
0:28:08 > 0:28:12should be concerned at Russia's increasing efforts in cyber warfare
0:28:12 > 0:28:16and the disruption it poses to our democracy and the defence of the
0:28:16 > 0:28:20realm. I wonder what steps he and his department are trying to take to
0:28:20 > 0:28:26minimise that serious Russian threat?I'm grateful, it gives me
0:28:26 > 0:28:31the opportunity to say that I didn't because I was at the 100th
0:28:31 > 0:28:35anniversary of the first use of a tank in France, and a marvellous
0:28:35 > 0:28:39event it was too. He makes a reasonable point. I can only refer
0:28:39 > 0:28:42him to some of the comments I made during this question about the
0:28:42 > 0:28:52investment and how seriously we take that threat.The MoD works closely
0:28:52 > 0:28:57with our allies and partners making a crucial contribution to Britain's
0:28:57 > 0:29:04status as a global power. The challenging global security context,
0:29:04 > 0:29:07including a resurgent Russia, makes our relationships all the more vital
0:29:07 > 0:29:13going forward. In my first three weeks I've met defence ministers
0:29:13 > 0:29:16from the US, France and other Nato members and will continue to engage
0:29:16 > 0:29:24widely.Given the current financial pressures within the MoD does my
0:29:24 > 0:29:28right honourable friend agree that Lieutenant General Ben Hodges the
0:29:28 > 0:29:32commander of the US Army in Europe, he says Britain risks going into a
0:29:32 > 0:29:36different type of category of Ally if we cannot maintain our capability
0:29:36 > 0:29:45commitments?When I had the good fortune to sit down with the
0:29:45 > 0:29:52secretary Mattis to discuss our partnership, what struck me was the
0:29:52 > 0:29:56valley the US puts on everything Britain does. The contribution our
0:29:56 > 0:30:00men and equipment maker -- the value the US puts on everything Britain
0:30:00 > 0:30:03does. He left me in no doubt that that commitment, that support we
0:30:03 > 0:30:08have always provided the United States will always be there going
0:30:08 > 0:30:13forward.Thank you. Despite what the Secretary of State says, Lieutenant
0:30:13 > 0:30:19General Hodges and James Mattis have both said that we'll lose our clout
0:30:19 > 0:30:24in Nato, we will lose our place at the top table, if the cuts continue.
0:30:24 > 0:30:31Will the new Secretary of State permit to stopping the cuts to our
0:30:31 > 0:30:35capability and actually making sure Britain does stay at the top table
0:30:35 > 0:30:40and has the capability to defend ourselves and our allies?This
0:30:40 > 0:30:43government's commitment to making sure we have the best that our Armed
0:30:43 > 0:30:49Forces has always been clear, with a rising defence Budget going from 36
0:30:49 > 0:30:54billion to 40 billion, that is evidence of that commitment. The
0:30:54 > 0:30:58United States knows quite clearly that we will always be there in
0:30:58 > 0:31:02support of them regardless of what the honourable lady's leader may
0:31:02 > 0:31:09wish.Order. An unseemly habit developing of members asking a
0:31:09 > 0:31:13question and then proceeding to grant from a sedentary position. I
0:31:13 > 0:31:16had a letter about it today from a member of the public was most
0:31:16 > 0:31:20aggrieved. I'm sure the honourable lady wouldn't wish to disappoint the
0:31:20 > 0:31:26person concerned and will recover her usual composure. Rob Stewart, a
0:31:26 > 0:31:33well-behaved fellows.LAUGHTERMr Speaker, I'm not normally! But thank
0:31:33 > 0:31:41you. Could I ask my right honourable friend bearing in mind our alliance
0:31:41 > 0:31:46relationships, how long does he think that RAF pilots will have to
0:31:46 > 0:31:56continue to fly above Iraq is apparently Daesh is almost defeated?
0:31:56 > 0:32:05I think my honourable friend raises an important point. While we have
0:32:05 > 0:32:10made such amazing progress with 600 operations blamed by the RAF over
0:32:10 > 0:32:19Iraq and Syria, we shouldn't think that Daesh are defeated. What they
0:32:19 > 0:32:25will do is disperse. The threat this country faces means we will continue
0:32:25 > 0:32:29to have to fly operations above Iraq and Syria for a considerable time
0:32:29 > 0:32:40more.Our amphibious capabilities are part of our defence partner, is
0:32:40 > 0:32:46the future of the HMS secure?There has been a lot of speculation in the
0:32:46 > 0:32:56press about our capabilities. As part of a capability review,
0:32:56 > 0:32:59obviously we are asked to look at everything we do. I'm not going to
0:32:59 > 0:33:04start with speculation as to what will happen going forward. I want to
0:33:04 > 0:33:08look at the evidence the details and we aren't going to be rushed any
0:33:08 > 0:33:21decisions. The MoD continuously monitors developments and challenges
0:33:21 > 0:33:23arising from emerging weapon technology increasing increasingly
0:33:23 > 0:33:28automated weapons systems. The UK considers the UN Convention on
0:33:28 > 0:33:31certain conventional weapons to be the right forum to discuss
0:33:31 > 0:33:34autonomous weapons systems and welcomes the progress made in Geneva
0:33:34 > 0:33:39by a group of government experts earlier this month.I thank the
0:33:39 > 0:33:43Minister for the reply. Weapons that can kill without human instruction
0:33:43 > 0:33:47or accountability and not science fiction but a worrying potential
0:33:47 > 0:33:50reality with huge moral consequences. If we were to secure
0:33:50 > 0:33:57international agreement on the control of these weapons, we need to
0:33:57 > 0:33:59start from a common understanding of the challenge. Will the Minister
0:33:59 > 0:34:01re-evaluate the UK's definition of autonomous weapons to bring it into
0:34:01 > 0:34:08line with that of the UN?Actually I think there is no international
0:34:08 > 0:34:13agreement on what autonomous weapons system is. That is precisely the
0:34:13 > 0:34:17point. Michaels for pre-emptive bands at this point would be
0:34:17 > 0:34:23inappropriate. I think the task in hand is to get an internationally
0:34:23 > 0:34:27defined definition which is why we believe the UN is the right forum to
0:34:27 > 0:34:39do this -- my calls for pre-emptive bans. .Therefore we will always
0:34:39 > 0:34:46need an army of about the current size or larger.We will definitely
0:34:46 > 0:34:56always need an army.Question number ten.We have threats intensifying
0:34:56 > 0:35:00around the world. It is vital our Armed Forces have the right
0:35:00 > 0:35:05capabilities going forward in order to defend global security. We are
0:35:05 > 0:35:10making good progress. Evidence has been reviewed and analysis
0:35:10 > 0:35:13conducted, and options developed. I very much look forward to working
0:35:13 > 0:35:16with my honourable friend, listening to his thoughts and comments on how
0:35:16 > 0:35:22best to take this forward.We welcome the Secretary of State to
0:35:22 > 0:35:25his new job. His background ideally suited to fighting the corner in the
0:35:25 > 0:35:29review is coming along. Would he please speak to the Prime Minister,
0:35:29 > 0:35:33remind her that her primary duty is the defence of the realm. Will he
0:35:33 > 0:35:37speak to the national security adviser and Secretary of State of
0:35:37 > 0:35:41the Cabinet office to remind them they mustn't use this review as a
0:35:41 > 0:35:44camouflage to cut off our armed services? Will his big to be
0:35:44 > 0:35:47Transport Secretary to make sure he produces the money we need. And
0:35:47 > 0:35:54above all will he speak to his right honourable friend the Chief Whip to
0:35:54 > 0:35:59remind him if he doesn't do so he'll face a substantial billing.I can
0:35:59 > 0:36:03assure him I will speak to every single one of those people that he
0:36:03 > 0:36:08has outlined. As he rightly points out, the defence of our nation is
0:36:08 > 0:36:13the first and primary responsibility of every government. That is one I
0:36:13 > 0:36:16take exceptionally seriously. When you see our Armed Forces and
0:36:16 > 0:36:20everything they do, the commitment in which they give themselves to it,
0:36:20 > 0:36:26you cannot be anything other than bored. I will do everything I can to
0:36:26 > 0:36:32deliver for them -- you cannot be anything other than awed..And
0:36:32 > 0:36:37welcome confirmation that the frigates will be based in Devonport
0:36:37 > 0:36:41but it is abundantly clear there is a cross-party majority of this has
0:36:41 > 0:36:46opposed to government plans to scrap HMS Albion, HMS bulwark and Royal
0:36:46 > 0:36:51Marines. Will he abandon its plans and confirm we will protect our
0:36:51 > 0:37:02amphibious capabilities?I would like to pay tribute to my right
0:37:02 > 0:37:06honourable friend the Member for Plymouth who has continuously
0:37:06 > 0:37:12lobbied me on the issue of the type 23 frigate and the importance it has
0:37:12 > 0:37:15two the Plymouth and Devonport dockyard. It was impressive to be
0:37:15 > 0:37:18able to go down there and visit the dockyard and see the work that's
0:37:18 > 0:37:23being done. I'll be looking at all the capability within all our forces
0:37:23 > 0:37:27to make sure that we get the very best out of everything we do and
0:37:27 > 0:37:34every pound but we spend.Eyed to welcome the Secretary of State to
0:37:34 > 0:37:39his new role. I wish him all the best for the future in whatever
0:37:39 > 0:37:45challenges may now await him. Can I reiterate the point made by my
0:37:45 > 0:37:51honourable friend and echoed by him, that the defence of the realm is the
0:37:51 > 0:37:55first duty of government above all others, and would he agree with me
0:37:55 > 0:38:04that our history as a nation teaches us that lesson again and again?My
0:38:04 > 0:38:07right honourable friend always speaks with a high degree of common
0:38:07 > 0:38:11sense and truth. I would like to pay tribute to the work that he has done
0:38:11 > 0:38:17for the Ministry of Defence in the past. I agree with his assessment of
0:38:17 > 0:38:22it, because that is ultimately what everyone will judge by government
0:38:22 > 0:38:27does in terms of how it defends the nation.Maintaining capabilities is
0:38:27 > 0:38:32as important as creating them. How much will it cost to upgrade the
0:38:32 > 0:38:42nation 's docking facility now it is necessary to refuel all of them
0:38:42 > 0:38:47alongside doing deep maintenance to the astute class? Who will pay for
0:38:47 > 0:38:51that?We are working with our industrial partners on that and
0:38:51 > 0:38:54looking at it closely as to what the costs will be. I'm not able to
0:38:54 > 0:38:58reveal those costs to the House at the moment but it is a body of work
0:38:58 > 0:39:07we are continuing to work on.Mr Speaker, the £800 million defence
0:39:07 > 0:39:10innovation fund provides great opportunities for innovative
0:39:10 > 0:39:14suppliers. For example I can announce that the defence science
0:39:14 > 0:39:18and technology laboratories working with industry and academia have
0:39:18 > 0:39:20developed a cutting edge new chemical process to recover
0:39:20 > 0:39:24fingerprints and make it harder for terrorists and criminals to escape
0:39:24 > 0:39:31justice.The Minister identifies great innovation within our
0:39:31 > 0:39:38supplies. She also agree that an example shown the advanced induction
0:39:38 > 0:39:43motor technology, installed on the Queen Elizabeth aircraft carrier and
0:39:43 > 0:39:50manufactured by GE in my constituency?He's right to speak up
0:39:50 > 0:39:55for the amazing work that is done in his constituency, not only for the
0:39:55 > 0:40:04carrier programme but also for the type 26 frigates.The government
0:40:04 > 0:40:10talks about wanting to increase the role of SME with procurement, can
0:40:10 > 0:40:15she tell us what steps have been taken to facilitate this?There have
0:40:15 > 0:40:20been a range of steps taken to facilitate that. For example we have
0:40:20 > 0:40:29a single website into what we are procuring at the MoD. We shortened
0:40:29 > 0:40:32the contract reeve acquire small businesses to sign down to three
0:40:32 > 0:40:39pages and we also have a system of people within the organisation who
0:40:39 > 0:40:42can help new businesses find their way around the intricacies of the
0:40:42 > 0:40:48MoD.
0:40:48 > 0:40:53And thank you. Personnel deployed on operations must have confidence that
0:40:53 > 0:40:57their families at home are able to access the support that they need.
0:40:57 > 0:41:02Welfare support is provided to families both before, during and
0:41:02 > 0:41:09after deployment.I thought it with the intention to group this question
0:41:09 > 0:41:18with a 13.Mr Speaker, Magruder 's question was number 13?One in three
0:41:18 > 0:41:22spouses did not even know where to go for service provided welfare
0:41:22 > 0:41:29support. -- support, whilst their partner was deployed. It is vital
0:41:29 > 0:41:33that service families know that help is available and what steps is the
0:41:33 > 0:41:39department taking to ensure that this is the case?I am sorry to hear
0:41:39 > 0:41:43that he has an example of the system not working as it showed. It is
0:41:43 > 0:41:48important that if we are to have the most professional army, air force or
0:41:48 > 0:41:52navy in the world, that those who are deployed have the understanding
0:41:52 > 0:41:56that their loved ones are looked after back home. I would be happy to
0:41:56 > 0:42:03meet the honourable member to discuss the issue.Will you join me
0:42:03 > 0:42:06in congratulating Newport County football club for recently joining
0:42:06 > 0:42:13the armed service Common. The only adequate way that we can deal fairly
0:42:13 > 0:42:17with those who are injured in body or mind by their services is to
0:42:17 > 0:42:23provide them with facilities and benefits that will leave them in a
0:42:23 > 0:42:31position that they don't have to rely on charities?Mr Speaker, he
0:42:31 > 0:42:35makes reference to the Armed Forces government. This is the biggest
0:42:35 > 0:42:41single change that recognises that no member of the Armed Forces or
0:42:41 > 0:42:46veterans should be disadvantaged because of their service. He is
0:42:46 > 0:42:51right to to that. I would encourage all members to visit their local
0:42:51 > 0:42:56areas and ask what questions are being done -- and ask what measures
0:42:56 > 0:43:04are being taken to ensure that their local authorities are living up to
0:43:04 > 0:43:12these obligations.The redevelopment of sites is now accused outside
0:43:12 > 0:43:23Brize Norton. What recommendation -- what reassurances can you provide to
0:43:23 > 0:43:31my arms forces constituents.The accommodation model is about some
0:43:31 > 0:43:36people wanted to live inside or outside barracks. Can I pay to read
0:43:36 > 0:43:46to the federations who help families when Armed Forces are operations.
0:43:46 > 0:43:56The UK has been involved in in the central moderation -- Mediterranean
0:43:56 > 0:44:02since 2015. Royal Navy vessels have saved 12,500 lives and 500 smuggling
0:44:02 > 0:44:08vessels have been destroyed.Was it is welcome that operations of fear
0:44:08 > 0:44:12has saved so many lives, it is failing to disrupt human trafficking
0:44:12 > 0:44:17in the way that was intended. Will the Minister talk to our European
0:44:17 > 0:44:20partners to ensure it can be recalibrated to achieve that goal?
0:44:20 > 0:44:34We routinely assess our operations against the remit. It forms is one
0:44:34 > 0:44:46part of a wider government strategy. Topical question number one.I would
0:44:46 > 0:44:50like to start off by paying tribute to my predecessor the honourable
0:44:50 > 0:44:55member 47 Oaks who has done so much for our armed services and has been
0:44:55 > 0:45:03one of our longest serving Secretary of States for defence. It is an
0:45:03 > 0:45:07honour to the Defence Secretary and I am proud to represent some of the
0:45:07 > 0:45:12finest Armed Forces in the world. I would also like to say thank you for
0:45:12 > 0:45:15the UK contribution to rescue operations in the Argentinian
0:45:15 > 0:45:24submarine. The UK contribution to search includes HMS protector, HMS
0:45:24 > 0:45:30Clyde, DC- 130 and the Royal Navy parachute assistance group. I would
0:45:30 > 0:45:37also like to thank the service personnel who did so much to raise
0:45:37 > 0:45:42money for the Poppy Day appeal. This has been valued by so many and has
0:45:42 > 0:45:46raised tens of millions of pounds that will make such a difference to
0:45:46 > 0:45:51so many lives. And I must also thank the Chancellor of the Exchequer for
0:45:51 > 0:46:01his kindness and generosity in terms of the allocation of Libor finds. I
0:46:01 > 0:46:07hope this will continue.My honourable friend I'm sure will join
0:46:07 > 0:46:11me in paying tribute to the 150 British troops who have been sent
0:46:11 > 0:46:17north-east Poland on rotational deployment. What steps is he going
0:46:17 > 0:46:22to take to ensure that we increase those numbers and continue our
0:46:22 > 0:46:26support for our Polish allies in a post-Brexit world through our Nato
0:46:26 > 0:46:35alliance?I have already had a great opportunity to meet my Polish
0:46:35 > 0:46:39opposite number and he is grateful for the commitments we have made for
0:46:39 > 0:46:45the defence of Poland. We constantly review Cink review troop numbers but
0:46:45 > 0:46:50we are open to the idea of committing more. We must not
0:46:50 > 0:46:53underestimate the threat that Russia continues to pose and we have to be
0:46:53 > 0:46:59ready to step up to such a threat. And while we are leaving the
0:46:59 > 0:47:01European Union, our commitment to the collective defence of Europe is
0:47:01 > 0:47:11not diminished.Mr Speaker, it is alarming that one of the scant
0:47:11 > 0:47:16references in the budget is about forces' families in the private
0:47:16 > 0:47:24rented sector. The future accommodation model threatens to
0:47:24 > 0:47:28fragment our forces' communities. Characterised by high rents and
0:47:28 > 0:47:33unbearable landlords' performances, what guarantees it can Minister give
0:47:33 > 0:47:39that under the future accommodation model no service personnel will be
0:47:39 > 0:47:46forced out of service accommodation and into the private rented sector?
0:47:46 > 0:47:52We need to ensure that we provide a model that retains and attract
0:47:52 > 0:47:56personnel. But will face competition in the private sector and the job
0:47:56 > 0:48:01sector. That is why we have an Armed Forces people programme which is
0:48:01 > 0:48:05looking not just add accommodation but across the board at what the
0:48:05 > 0:48:12offering is. It is important to roll out the new model. There will be a
0:48:12 > 0:48:19pilot scheme and will allow people to stay on the rented sector or own
0:48:19 > 0:48:28their own property.Prince Harry has done tireless work to improve mental
0:48:28 > 0:48:33health for Armed Forces and can the Minister update us on what is being
0:48:33 > 0:48:37done on that and like others, I congratulate Prince Harry and Meghan
0:48:37 > 0:48:45Markle.Can I join the Secretary of State in congratulating Prince Harry
0:48:45 > 0:48:53and Meghan Markle. I had the privilege of working with Prince
0:48:53 > 0:48:57Harry in Toronto and the project Invictus gains is his. It continues
0:48:57 > 0:49:06next year in Sydney. It helps people in the given up a new life and a new
0:49:06 > 0:49:12chapter in sport. It is to commend Prince Harry and the Royal family in
0:49:12 > 0:49:18their work in supporting our Armed Forces.The secretary of state may
0:49:18 > 0:49:23be aware that in 2009, the terms of business agreement between the MoD
0:49:23 > 0:49:29and BAE Systems ensure there was a commitment to invest in shipbuilding
0:49:29 > 0:49:34infrastructure and make sure it is in the top quarter of shipbuilding
0:49:34 > 0:49:40structures worldwide. That commitment is no longer there. Can
0:49:40 > 0:49:46the Minister confirm that the commitment is still there?Of course
0:49:46 > 0:49:51I can confirm that we have a commitment to a world-class
0:49:51 > 0:49:58shipbuilding industry. Indeed, it is a pipeline of work that goes out to
0:49:58 > 0:50:06decade in terms of the shipbuilding industry in Scotland.I congratulate
0:50:06 > 0:50:10my right honourable friend on his appointment. Can you confirm that he
0:50:10 > 0:50:14is committed to the development of the dreadnought style of submarines
0:50:14 > 0:50:18and reaffirmed his commitment to ensure that the way will retain our
0:50:18 > 0:50:24independent nuclear deterrent? -- that we will retain.My honourable
0:50:24 > 0:50:30friend raises a valid will point because if you look at the three
0:50:30 > 0:50:34main parties, whether it is ours, the Labour Party or the SNP, the
0:50:34 > 0:50:40only party that can guarantee that way will have an independent nuclear
0:50:40 > 0:50:45deterrent is the Conservative Party, so let no one forget that.Mr
0:50:45 > 0:50:51Speaker, Britain's defence industry support hundreds of jobs across the
0:50:51 > 0:50:55south Wales valleys. Will the government support our armoured
0:50:55 > 0:50:59fighting vehicle industry and allow them to compete for a contract for
0:50:59 > 0:51:06the boxer armoured vehicle?It gives me an opportunity to pay tribute to
0:51:06 > 0:51:11the fantastic work that is being done on the Ajax vehicles. We have
0:51:11 > 0:51:16539 of those vehicles being worked on over the largest contract for
0:51:16 > 0:51:20military vehicles that has been awarded in this country for 30
0:51:20 > 0:51:26years. That involves a lot of work for the workforce in south Wales.I
0:51:26 > 0:51:30was pleased to hear the secretary of state's stead fast support for Nato.
0:51:30 > 0:51:35Will he say what further steps we will be taking to support our Nato
0:51:35 > 0:51:40allies in Estonia in the face of increasing Russian aggression?My
0:51:40 > 0:51:45honourable friend will be aware that in the Warsaw Summit in 2015, Nato
0:51:45 > 0:51:51committed to responding to Russian belligerence through enhanced
0:51:51 > 0:51:55defence and dialogue. I'm delighted to have visited our Armand Batlle
0:51:55 > 0:52:00group in Estonia this week. 800 personnel who are delivering that
0:52:00 > 0:52:07presents together with the Royal Air Force who have supported that on two
0:52:07 > 0:52:15occasions -- on two occasions as well.Can the Minister confirm that
0:52:15 > 0:52:21the auxiliary orders will come to the Clyde and not be built abroad?I
0:52:21 > 0:52:25can confirm that exactly as outlined in the recommendations of the
0:52:25 > 0:52:31shipbuilding strategy and has been stated at -- and as has been stated
0:52:31 > 0:52:37in the House before, that part of our programme will be open to
0:52:37 > 0:52:41international competition, including shipyards on the Clyde.Does the
0:52:41 > 0:52:44Secretary of State agree that as we leave the EU we must remain
0:52:44 > 0:52:49committed to our European allies? And Kenny confirm what we are doing
0:52:49 > 0:52:57to support our allies in Romania? Act-macro and can he confirm.Having
0:52:57 > 0:53:01met my opposite number in Romania, one of the threats that we continue
0:53:01 > 0:53:08to see is Russia putting pressure on them. Britain has a proud tradition
0:53:08 > 0:53:13of putting troops and resources into Rumania and we are continuing to do
0:53:13 > 0:53:18that with typhoons operating above Romanian skies. Our commitment to
0:53:18 > 0:53:23that and the standing Naval task group with Nato is an important
0:53:23 > 0:53:31bulwark against increasing Russian aggression on the eastern flank.
0:53:31 > 0:53:35This coming Thursday marks the 36th anniversary of the disappearance of
0:53:35 > 0:53:46a young toddler from a complex in West Germany. Will the Minister
0:53:46 > 0:53:55review the case?I would be more than happy to review the case and
0:53:55 > 0:54:01meet with you to discuss this in greater detail.Last year, it was
0:54:01 > 0:54:07announced that Royal Marines based in my constituents that a Royal
0:54:07 > 0:54:12Marines base in my constituency would be closing. The previous
0:54:12 > 0:54:15secretary of state abilities and announced a review of that decision.
0:54:15 > 0:54:22Can the Minister update me on that review and indicate when a decision
0:54:22 > 0:54:28might be made?There is an Engineer Regiment based there and I know
0:54:28 > 0:54:33there's a historic importance. As part of the rationalisation
0:54:33 > 0:54:39programme, it is due for closure in 2027, but I'm happy to sit down and
0:54:39 > 0:54:44discuss the situation.The Minister has already spoken about the
0:54:44 > 0:54:50important trade role that the Red Arrows play as ambassadors for
0:54:50 > 0:54:54British aeronautical engineering. The secretary of state knows
0:54:54 > 0:54:57Yorkshire well and knows how important the skilled jobs are and
0:54:57 > 0:55:03look again at the requests from MPs are to renew the fleet for the Red
0:55:03 > 0:55:09Arrows?I am glad she pays tribute once again to that amazing trade
0:55:09 > 0:55:14promotion role. She will know as well as anyone that the current Red
0:55:14 > 0:55:18Arrows are in service until 2030 and therefore a decision to replace them
0:55:18 > 0:55:25will not need to take place until after the end of this Parliament.
0:55:25 > 0:55:28Well my right honourable friend provide an update on the work being
0:55:28 > 0:55:32done by British servicemen and women to train local forces in
0:55:32 > 0:55:40Afghanistan?I thank my honourable friend for that. What we have seen
0:55:40 > 0:55:45is an announcement of an uplift of 85 personnel who will be going to
0:55:45 > 0:55:50Afghanistan to support the work of the Afghan army. We are also going
0:55:50 > 0:55:56to be supplementing that with an additional 60 service personnel in
0:55:56 > 0:56:01order to continue the training and support that the Afghan army needs.
0:56:01 > 0:56:06While in Afghanistan we have seen substantial progress made, we cannot
0:56:06 > 0:56:09take this for granted and must continue to support the Afghan
0:56:09 > 0:56:16government as it continues to root out extremism.
0:56:16 > 0:56:19Despite the dangerously depleted state of the service, the Royal Navy
0:56:19 > 0:56:24has for the first time ever been chosen to mount Queen 's guard, and
0:56:24 > 0:56:29very smart and port they looked too in my opinion. But the Secretary of
0:56:29 > 0:56:33State take this opportunity to pay tribute to the Royal Navy, in fact
0:56:33 > 0:56:39tribute to the senior service?It would be a great honour to pay
0:56:39 > 0:56:44tribute to the senior service, having been on HMS Queen Elizabeth,
0:56:44 > 0:56:47HMS whence Minster and HMS Sutherland and seen the work that
0:56:47 > 0:56:52they do, you cannot help but feel proud. I'm very tempted to give you
0:56:52 > 0:57:03an honorary captaincy of a ship. I think I'd handed out to already. To
0:57:03 > 0:57:08be honest Mr Speaker I thought of you more as an Admiral banning
0:57:08 > 0:57:12captain. If that gets me out of a slightly difficult situation I will
0:57:12 > 0:57:19make an Admiral of a fleet.I now realise something, that charm is the
0:57:19 > 0:57:30middle name of the honourable gentleman.
0:57:30 > 0:57:35My home constituency has been home to the elite commander of units and
0:57:35 > 0:57:38for the last 46 years they'd been the linchpin of the local community.
0:57:38 > 0:57:43The base is one of Angus's major employers. Will the Minister confirm
0:57:43 > 0:57:49that I note plans to close it and that the place in Angus is secure?
0:57:49 > 0:57:57Does he agree with me that the reckless behaviour of politicians to
0:57:57 > 0:58:04scaremonger on this matter?As I touched on earlier there is a large
0:58:04 > 0:58:09area of Britain that is owned by the MoD. It is important we rationalise
0:58:09 > 0:58:13this real estate. It means looking at a number of locations, 91 of them
0:58:13 > 0:58:17across the country have been earmarked. I think it's just the
0:58:17 > 0:58:23airfield that needs to be looked at. Happy to discuss it with my
0:58:23 > 0:58:33honourable friend.
0:58:37 > 0:58:43The Secretary of State is fresh, new and busy but can I begged him to
0:58:43 > 0:58:48read John Fitzgerald Kennedy's little book on white England slept.
0:58:48 > 0:58:52Does he not think that England has been sleeping while the world has
0:58:52 > 0:58:56begun a much more dangerous place -- the world has become a much more
0:58:56 > 0:59:02dangerous place?I think there has been a tendency since the early
0:59:02 > 0:59:091990s that the world is a much safer place than it actually is. There has
0:59:09 > 0:59:13been a tendency to sometimes sit back and believe that everything is
0:59:13 > 0:59:19just going to be safer and safer. The world is rapidly changing and
0:59:19 > 0:59:22it's not just threats from counterterrorism. Its threats from
0:59:22 > 0:59:26peer enemies as well. We need to understand what those threats are
0:59:26 > 0:59:30and make sure we are equipped to deal with them. I am looking forward
0:59:30 > 0:59:38to a Christmas break and I will make sure that if I get a few minutes or
0:59:38 > 0:59:47if you I was spared, I'll be sure to read it.At the risk of being given
0:59:47 > 0:59:50an honorary captaincy, can I congratulate my right honourable
0:59:50 > 0:59:54friend on his job, I'm sure he will do it extremely well. With his
0:59:54 > 0:59:57ongoing discussions with the Treasury, will he be aware of two
0:59:57 > 1:00:01things. First of all there are those of us who believe the defence Budget
1:00:01 > 1:00:08has been pared back about as far as it can be. Secondly when it comes to
1:00:08 > 1:00:11discussing Trident renewal, there are many of us who do not believe
1:00:11 > 1:00:15that it should be part of the defence Budget. In fact that it
1:00:15 > 1:00:18distorts the defence Budget. And if that is part of his argument he will
1:00:18 > 1:00:25have more support than he knows.All of what he has raised is going to be
1:00:25 > 1:00:30part of the review. He raises an important point in terms of nuclear
1:00:30 > 1:00:34capability being part of a defence Budget. This has traditionally not
1:00:34 > 1:00:41been something that is part of a defence Budget and was only changed
1:00:41 > 1:00:47post-20 ten. I think what's vital is we look at all options as part of a
1:00:47 > 1:00:50national security and capability review. I'll be looking forward to
1:00:50 > 1:00:53speaking with my right honourable friend to seek his advice and
1:00:53 > 1:00:59thoughts on the issues that are raised.For the Secretary of State
1:00:59 > 1:01:04began today by outlining the three places he visited in his early days
1:01:04 > 1:01:07of his appointment. Congratulations on the appointment. But what
1:01:07 > 1:01:13reassurances can he give to workers at Rosyth to ensure that contracts
1:01:13 > 1:01:17are secure in future following the departure of the Queen Elizabeth
1:01:17 > 1:01:24class carriers?Having already had the pleasure of visiting Scotland
1:01:24 > 1:01:28I'll certainly be visiting Rosyth in the future. I'm incredibly grateful
1:01:28 > 1:01:33for the amazing work being done in terms of construction of HMS Queen
1:01:33 > 1:01:37Elizabeth and HMS Prince of Wales. We look forward to working with all
1:01:37 > 1:01:41our industrial partners to make sure we have a robust industrial Defence
1:01:41 > 1:01:45Secretary and I hope we have the support of his party on that for the
1:01:45 > 1:01:51defence of the whole of the UK.The Secretary of State will have heard
1:01:51 > 1:01:58on both sides of the House today some foretaste of the few raw that
1:01:58 > 1:02:03would like follow if HMS Albion and HMS Bulwark were to be deleted from
1:02:03 > 1:02:09the infantry -- foretaste of the furore. Can I humbly suggest that
1:02:09 > 1:02:15given the relatively small saving but would represent, it isn't worth
1:02:15 > 1:02:20it?Thank you. I certainly listen, as a former Chief Whip, someone once
1:02:20 > 1:02:25said to me there's no such thing as a former Chief Whip and I