Oral Answers to Questions

Leo Docherty Excerpts

Monday 9th July 2018 Commons Chamber

[Guto Bebb]

I thank the hon. Gentleman for his question but, once again, I refer him back to the shipbuilding strategy, which was endorsed on a cross-party basis. The key thing is that the Type 31e is a frigate and, as such, is designated as a warship. The fleet solid support ships are not designated as warships. We are very clearly following through the shipbuilding strategy, which we think will clearly improve the productivity of our yards and contribute to UK prosperity. The hon. Gentleman should do likewise.

[Leo Docherty (Aldershot) (Con)]

4. What his priorities are for the NATO summit in Brussels on 11 and 12 July 2018.

[The Secretary of State for Defence (Gavin Williamson)]

Our objective for the summit is a modern, unified NATO that is fit to face current and future global challenges and that is delivering against the commitments that allies have made.

[Leo Docherty]

Given that the NATO defence budget will be under discussion, does the Secretary of State agree that President Trump has a point when he criticises the lack of commitment on behalf of some member states towards our collective security?

[Gavin Williamson]

I think it is right to expect every single European country to contribute to the defence of Europe. All European countries need to step up their defence spending.