Contributions
735 recent contributions in Hansard
HANSARD UK-France Nuclear PartnershipIndeed. The shadow Minister asked whether the idea that we should work more closely with France has any implications for the independence of Trident, and he referred to the phrase…10 Jul 2025HANSARD UK-France Nuclear PartnershipI have nothing further to say on that today, as the hon. Gentleman would probably expect in a response to an urgent question on nuclear co-ordination.10 Jul 2025HANSARD UK-France Nuclear PartnershipI am sure that as soon as it is signed— [ Interruption. ] The shadow Minister has asked his questions. I would like to try to answer them without him heckling me too much,…10 Jul 2025HANSARD UK-France Nuclear PartnershipThe UK and France have a proud history of co-operation on defence nuclear matters. Alongside our conventional warfighting capability, the independent strategic nuclear forces of…10 Jul 2025HANSARD UK-France Nuclear PartnershipMy hon. Friend is correct. The strategic defence review and our ongoing commitment to increasing defence spending in this country give opportunity for our industry to benefit,…10 Jul 2025HANSARD UK-France Nuclear PartnershipI thank the hon. Gentleman for his support for this extra co-ordination. The aim of all this is to make sure that NATO and Europe are safe from the threats that may come from…10 Jul 2025HANSARD UK-France Nuclear PartnershipOur respective national authorities will remain responsible for planning and conducting operations. A UK-France nuclear steering group will be established to provide political…10 Jul 2025HANSARD UK-France Nuclear PartnershipThe agreement does not change our very close relationship with the Americans. In line with the NATO strategic concept, the strategic forces of the US, the UK and France all…10 Jul 2025HANSARD UK-France Nuclear PartnershipThe hon. Gentleman is usually last, but never least, and he is not even last on this occasion. I agree that it is important that we strengthen the credibility of our deterrence,…10 Jul 2025HANSARD UK-France Nuclear PartnershipI am not here to speak for the French Government. As far as I am concerned, our nuclear posture has not changed; their nuclear posture is a matter for them. What this agreement…10 Jul 2025HANSARD UK-France Nuclear PartnershipMy hon. Friend is correct. The refresh of the Lancaster House treaties is about not just nuclear co-operation, but co-operation between our conventional forces and greater…10 Jul 2025HANSARD UK-France Nuclear PartnershipThe hon. Gentleman complains about the amount of time it has taken this Government to do things in respect of defence, but we had to pick up the mess that was left by his…10 Jul 2025HANSARD UK-France Nuclear PartnershipThe steering group is about political policymaking rather than intelligence. I am sure that appropriate arrangements will be established if there is any such issue, but I do not…10 Jul 2025HANSARD UK-France Nuclear PartnershipI suppose I should say that I am surprised that the shadow Secretary of State for Defence only quoted half the sentence—if indeed that is the case—but he is probably not the first…10 Jul 2025HANSARD UK-France Nuclear PartnershipIf the right hon. Gentleman would like to listen to the reply, the agreement has not been signed yet. I am sure that as soon as it is signed—10 Jul 2025HANSARDRed ArrowsThe strategic defence review recommended that the Hawk T1 and T2 be replaced with a cost-effective advanced jet trainer. The future platform of the Royal Air Force aerobatic team…30 Jun 2025HANSARDTopical QuestionsWe always keep in mind our obligations under international law, and we obviously discuss matters that might pertain to it among the F-35 nations.30 Jun 2025HANSARDTopical QuestionsI thank my hon. Friend for highlighting the vital role of ITP Aero on some of our most important defence platforms, not least Typhoon and the A400M. The strategic defence review…30 Jun 2025HANSARDShipbuilding Supply LineI recognise the benefit that the construction of Type 31 frigates has brought to Rosyth, and I have personally engaged with international partners to try to secure future orders.…30 Jun 2025HANSARDShipbuilding Supply LineAs outlined in the strategic defence review and in the UK’s modern industrial strategy, the Government are committed to supporting an “always on” shipbuilding industry by…30 Jun 2025