Ministry of Defence

We protect the security, independence and interests of our country at home and abroad. We work with our allies and partners whenever possible. Our aim is to ensure that the armed forces have the training, equipment and support necessary for their work, and that we keep within budget.



Secretary of State

 Portrait

John Healey
Secretary of State for Defence

Shadow Ministers / Spokeperson
Liberal Democrat
Baroness Smith of Newnham (LD - Life peer)
Liberal Democrat Lords Spokesperson (Defence)

Conservative
James Cartlidge (Con - South Suffolk)
Shadow Secretary of State for Defence

Scottish National Party
Dave Doogan (SNP - Angus and Perthshire Glens)
Shadow SNP Spokesperson (Defence)

Green Party
Ellie Chowns (Green - North Herefordshire)
Green Spokesperson (Defence)

Liberal Democrat
James MacCleary (LD - Lewes)
Liberal Democrat Spokesperson (Defence)
Junior Shadow Ministers / Deputy Spokesperson
Conservative
Baroness Goldie (Con - Life peer)
Shadow Minister (Defence)
Earl of Minto (Con - Excepted Hereditary)
Shadow Minister (Defence)
Mark Francois (Con - Rayleigh and Wickford)
Shadow Minister (Defence)
Ministers of State
Lord Coaker (Lab - Life peer)
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
Al Carns (Lab - Birmingham Selly Oak)
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for Veterans)
Luke Pollard (LAB - Plymouth Sutton and Devonport)
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
Parliamentary Under-Secretaries of State
Louise Sandher-Jones (Lab - North East Derbyshire)
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence)
There are no upcoming events identified
Debates
Thursday 23rd April 2026
Select Committee Docs
Tuesday 21st April 2026
11:15
Select Committee Inquiry
Wednesday 28th January 2026
Defence in the High North

The inquiry will examine the current and emerging threats in the region. It will ask what the UK’s defence and …

Written Answers
Monday 27th April 2026
USA: Military Bases
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to statements made by Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer on …
Secondary Legislation
Wednesday 22nd April 2026
Ministry of Defence Police (Vetting) Regulations 2026
These Regulations make provision for the vetting of Ministry of Defence Police (“MDP”) officers. They require every MDP officer to …
Bills
Thursday 15th January 2026
Armed Forces Bill 2024-26
A Bill to continue the Armed Forces Act 2006; to amend that Act and other enactments relating to the armed …
Dept. Publications
Monday 27th April 2026
09:48

Ministry of Defence Commons Appearances

Oral Answers to Questions is a regularly scheduled appearance where the Secretary of State and junior minister will answer at the Dispatch Box questions from backbench MPs

Other Commons Chamber appearances can be:
  • Urgent Questions where the Speaker has selected a question to which a Minister must reply that day
  • Adjornment Debates a 30 minute debate attended by a Minister that concludes the day in Parliament.
  • Oral Statements informing the Commons of a significant development, where backbench MP's can then question the Minister making the statement.

Westminster Hall debates are performed in response to backbench MPs or e-petitions asking for a Minister to address a detailed issue

Written Statements are made when a current event is not sufficiently significant to require an Oral Statement, but the House is required to be informed.

Most Recent Commons Appearances by Category
Mar. 16
Oral Questions
Jan. 12
Urgent Questions
Apr. 23
Written Statements
Apr. 22
Westminster Hall
Mar. 25
Adjournment Debate
View All Ministry of Defence Commons Contibutions

Bills currently before Parliament

Ministry of Defence does not have Bills currently before Parliament


Acts of Parliament created in the 2024 Parliament

Introduced: 6th November 2024

A Bill to establish, and confer functions on, the Armed Forces Commissioner; to abolish the office of Service Complaints Ombudsman; and for connected purposes.

This Bill received Royal Assent on 3rd September 2025 and was enacted into law.

Ministry of Defence - Secondary Legislation

These Regulations make provision for the vetting of Ministry of Defence Police (“MDP”) officers. They require every MDP officer to hold and maintain vetting clearance. They also establish a procedure for withdrawing vetting clearance where there is evidence that an MDP officer may no longer be suitable to hold it. The Regulations are connected to the regulations which deal with conduct matters and unsatisfactory performance or attendance set out in Schedules 1 and 4 to the Ministry of Defence Police (Conduct, Performance and Appeals Tribunals) Regulations 2020 (S.I. 2020/1087) (“the 2020 Regulations”).
This Order amends the Personal Injuries (Civilians) Scheme 1983 (“the Scheme”), which makes provision for the payment of pensions and allowances to, or in respect of, civilians who were killed or injured during the 1939-1945 World War.
View All Ministry of Defence Secondary Legislation

Petitions

e-Petitions are administered by Parliament and allow members of the public to express support for a particular issue.

If an e-petition reaches 10,000 signatures the Government will issue a written response.

If an e-petition reaches 100,000 signatures the petition becomes eligible for a Parliamentary debate (usually Monday 4.30pm in Westminster Hall).

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Petitions with most signatures
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7,658 Signatures
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5,319 Signatures
(72 in the last 7 days)
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4,323 Signatures
(59 in the last 7 days)
Ministry of Defence has not participated in any petition debates
View All Ministry of Defence Petitions

Departmental Select Committee

Defence Committee

Commons Select Committees are a formally established cross-party group of backbench MPs tasked with holding a Government department to account.

At any time there will be number of ongoing investigations into the work of the Department, or issues which fall within the oversight of the Department. Witnesses can be summoned from within the Government and outside to assist in these inquiries.

Select Committee findings are reported to the Commons, printed, and published on the Parliament website. The government then usually has 60 days to reply to the committee's recommendations.


11 Members of the Defence Committee
Tanmanjeet Singh Dhesi Portrait
Tanmanjeet Singh Dhesi (Labour - Slough)
Defence Committee Member since 11th September 2024
Derek Twigg Portrait
Derek Twigg (Labour - Widnes and Halewood)
Defence Committee Member since 21st October 2024
Fred Thomas Portrait
Fred Thomas (Labour - Plymouth Moor View)
Defence Committee Member since 21st October 2024
Michelle Scrogham Portrait
Michelle Scrogham (Labour - Barrow and Furness)
Defence Committee Member since 21st October 2024
Jesse Norman Portrait
Jesse Norman (Conservative - Hereford and South Herefordshire)
Defence Committee Member since 21st October 2024
Emma Lewell Portrait
Emma Lewell (Labour - South Shields)
Defence Committee Member since 21st October 2024
Lincoln Jopp Portrait
Lincoln Jopp (Conservative - Spelthorne)
Defence Committee Member since 21st October 2024
Alex Baker Portrait
Alex Baker (Labour - Aldershot)
Defence Committee Member since 21st October 2024
Calvin Bailey Portrait
Calvin Bailey (Labour - Leyton and Wanstead)
Defence Committee Member since 21st October 2024
Ian Roome Portrait
Ian Roome (Liberal Democrat - North Devon)
Defence Committee Member since 28th October 2024
Mike Martin Portrait
Mike Martin (Liberal Democrat - Tunbridge Wells)
Defence Committee Member since 28th October 2024
Defence Committee: Upcoming Events
Defence Committee - Oral evidence
Defence in the High North
28 Apr 2026, 10 a.m.
At 10:30am: Oral evidence
Professor Katarzyna Zysk - Professor of International Relations and Contemporary History at Norwegian Institute For Defence Studies
Professor David Blagden - Professor of International Security & Strategy at The University of Exeter

View calendar - Save to Calendar
Defence Committee: Previous Inquiries
The Integrated Security, Defence and Foreign Policy Review The Security of 5G SDSR 2015 and the Army inquiry Russia: implications for UK defence and security inquiry Ministry of Defence Annual Report and Accounts 2015–16 inquiry BBC Monitoring inquiry Defence Acquisition and Procurement inquiry Awards for Valour (Protection) Bill inquiry Naval Procurement: Type 26 and Type 45 inquiry NATO Warsaw summit and Chilcot Report Work of the Department 2017 inquiry F-35 Procurement inquiry North Korea inquiry Indispensable allies: US, NATO and UK Defence relations inquiry Defence Acquisition and Procurement inquiry Ministry of Defence Annual Report and Accounts 2016-17 inquiry Locally Employed Civilians inquiry The effects of BAE restructuring on UK Defence inquiry National Security Capability Review inquiry The Royal Marines and UK amphibious capability inquiry The Government’s Brexit position paper: Foreign policy, defence and development: a future partnership paper inquiry Military exercises and the duty of care: follow up inquiry Armed Forces Covenant Annual Report 2016 inquiry UK National Shipbuilding Strategy inquiry The indispensable ally? US, NATO and UK Defence relations inquiry Locally employed interpreters inquiry Trident missile testing inquiry Investigations into fatalities involving British military personnel inquiry SDSR 2015 and the RAF inquiry Defence industrial policy: procurement and prosperity inquiry Military Exercises and the Duty of Care: Further Follow-Up inquiry Evidence from the new Defence Secretary inquiry UK Defence and the Strait of Hormuz inquiry Ministry of Defence Annual Reports and Accounts 2018-19 inquiry Procurement Update inquiry Domestic Threat of Drones inquiry UK Defence and the Far East inquiry Armed Forces Covenant Annual Report 2018 inquiry Work of the Service Complaints Ombudsman inquiry UK Response to Hybrid Threats inquiry INF Treaty withdrawal inquiry Ministry of Defence Annual Report and Accounts 2017-18 inquiry Departmental Priorities – Post-NATO Summit inquiry Work of Defence Equipment and Support inquiry Work of the Chief of Defence Staff inquiry Mental Health and the Armed Forces, Part Two: The Provision of Care inquiry Future anti-ship missile system inquiry Statute of limitations – veterans protection inquiry UK Military Operations in Mosul and Raqqa inquiry Mechanised Infantry Vehicle Procurement inquiry Modernising Defence Programme inquiry Departmental priorities inquiry Armed forces and veterans mental health inquiry Armed Forces Covenant Annual Report 2017 inquiry Global Islamist Terrorism inquiry MoD Annual Report and Accounts 2012-13 Work of the Chief of the Defence Staff MoD Supplementary Estimates 2012-13 Operations in Afghanistan Strategic Defence and Security Review & the National Security Strategy The Armed Forces Covenant in Action? Part 1: Military Casualties Operations in Libya Developing Threats to Electronic Infrastructure The Armed Forces Covenant in Action? Part 2: Accommodation Defence Implications of Possible Scottish Independence Impact on UK Defence of the proposed merger of BAE systems and EADS MoD Main Estimates 2013-14 Towards the next Defence and Security Review: Part One Armed Forces Covenant in Action? Educating Service Personnel Children Armed Forces Covenant in Action? Part 4: Service Personnel Education Defence Acquisition Defence and cyber-security UK Armed Forces Personnel and Legal Framework for Future Operations Future Army 2020 Future Maritime Surveillance Lariam inquiry Publication of the SDSR UK military operations in Syria and Iraq inquiry Shifting the Goalposts? Defence Expenditure and the 2% pledge Flexible Response? An SDSR checklist of potential threats Towards the next defence and security review: Part Three Ministry of Defence Annual Report and Accounts 2013-14 The situation in Iraq and Syria Decision-making in Defence Policy Future Force 2020 Armed Forces (Services Complaints and Financial Assistance) Bill MoD Main Estimates 2014-15 Inquiry Defence Growth Partnership Ministry of Defence Mid Year Report Towards the next Defence and Security Review: Part Two: NATO Afghanistan - Camp Bastion Attack Defence Materiel Strategy Afghanistan The Armed Forces Covenant in Action Part 5: Military Casualties Pre-appointment hearing: Service Complaints Commissioner Defence contribution to the UK’s pandemic response Progress in delivering the British Army’s armoured vehicle capability Foreign Involvement in the Defence Supply Chain The Integrated Review – Threats, Capabilities and Concepts Defence and Climate Change National Shipbuilding Strategy Refresh Armed Forces Readiness Future Aviation Capabilities Defence in the Grey Zone Women in the Armed Forces: Follow-Up The UK contribution to European Security The Armed Forces Covenant AUKUS Afghan Data Breach and Resettlement Schemes Defence in the High North NATO, US and UK Defence Relations National security and investment Beyond endurance? Military exercises and the duty of care Defence in the Arctic MoD support for former and serving personnel subject to judicial processes Defence in the Arctic (Sub-Committee) Armed Forces Covenant Annual Report 2018 Defence industrial policy: procurement and prosperity Departmental Priorities – Post-NATO Summit Domestic Threat of Drones Evidence from the new Defence Secretary Global Islamist Terrorism INF Treaty withdrawal UK Military Operations in Mosul and Raqqa Future anti-ship missile system Statute of limitations – veterans protection Mental Health and the Armed Forces, Part Two: The Provision of Care Work of Defence Equipment and Support Ministry of Defence Annual Reports and Accounts 2018-19 European Defence Industrial Development Programme Modernising Defence Programme Military Exercises and the Duty of Care: Further Follow-Up Procurement Update Work of the Service Complaints Ombudsman UK Defence and the Far East UK Defence and the Strait of Hormuz UK Response to Hybrid Threats Work of the Chief of Defence Staff

50 most recent Written Questions

(View all written questions)
Written Questions can be tabled by MPs and Lords to request specific information information on the work, policy and activities of a Government Department

15th Apr 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how much his Department has been asked to make in in-year budget savings in 2026/27.

As part of routine financial management, the Ministry of Defence continues to allocate resources effectively to meet departmental and operational priorities. The total Ministry of Defence budget this financial year stands at £65.5 billion.

Luke Pollard
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
17th Apr 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to statements made by Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer on Monday 13th April 2026, to clarify a) the terms and b) the processes by which US use of UK military bases are monitored.

The agreement allowing the US to use UK military bases is for specific and limited defensive action.

Permissions to utilise UK military bases by foreign partners are considered on a case-by-case basis. All UK operational support to allies and partners is carefully considered to ensure legality.

A summary of the government’s legal position was published on gov.uk on 1 March 2026.

For operational security reasons, we do not offer comment or information relating to foreign nations’ military operations.

Al Carns
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for Veterans)
9th Mar 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment he has made of the reasons UK military assets failed to intercept the attack drone that struck RAF Akrotiri on 2 March 2026.

We have deployed significant air defence assets to the region since January. This includes extra jets, radars, HMS Dragon, counter drones systems and over 500 additional British personnel as part of our significant air defence team.

This is a comprehensive layered air defence capability. It would not be appropriate to comment on any assessment which may be utilised by our adversaries.

Al Carns
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for Veterans)
11th Feb 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, if Ministers in his Department will publish correspondence with Peter Mandelson between 10 February and 11 September 2025.

In line with the Humble Address motion agreed on 4 February, any information relevant to this and other questions regarding Mr Mandelson's appointment to, employment in, and withdrawal from, his posting as His Majesty's Ambassador to the United States will be published according to the process and provisions set out in the motion.

Luke Pollard
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
21st Apr 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how many complaints relating to the speed of maintenance for urgent repairs were received by VIVO from 23/03/26 to 06/04/26.

This information is not held in the format requested for Amey and VIVO. Complaints from families are received and managed by Pinnacle’s National Service Centre. Amey and VIVO do not record or manage these complaints from families.

Between 23 March 2026 and 06 April 2026, Pinnacle received 16 complaints concerning the length of time taken to complete an urgent repair task.

Luke Pollard
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
22nd Apr 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how many major contracts which have been signed by his department since July 2024 were a) sustainment or refresh contracts or b) new procurement contracts.

The Department can confirm that, since July 2024, the department has signed a total of 1,398 major contracts. Ministry of Defence (MOD) contract records do not distinguish between sustainment or refresh (i.e. follow-on) contracts. Consequently, we can only provide the number of new contracts initiated since 5 July 2024.

Luke Pollard
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
21st Apr 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how many times United States aircraft taking off from bases in the United Kingdom have conducted strikes on Iran since 28 February 2026.

For operational security reasons, we do not offer comment or information relating to foreign nations’ military operations.

Permissions to utilise UK military bases by foreign partners are considered on a case-by-case basis. All UK operational support to allies and partners is considered in terms of legality.

Al Carns
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for Veterans)
21st Apr 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how many times United States aircraft taking off from Diego Garcia have conducted strikes on Iran since 28 February 2026.

For operational security reasons, we do not offer comment or information relating to foreign nations’ military operations.

Permissions to utilise UK military bases by foreign partners are considered on a case-by-case basis. All UK operational support to allies and partners is considered in terms of legality.

Al Carns
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for Veterans)
21st Apr 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether he has made an estimate of the number of civilian casualties caused by United States airstrikes on Iran since 28 February 2026.

The agreement allowing the US to use UK military bases is for specific and limited defensive action against missile facilities in Iran which were involved in launching strikes at regional allies and ships in the Strait of Hormuz.

For operational security reasons, we do not offer comment or information relating to foreign nations’ military operations.

Al Carns
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for Veterans)
21st Apr 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, if he will review the 2020 military cooperation agreement with Israel in the context of that country’s role in the war on Iran since 28 February 2026.

A UK-Israel military cooperation agreement, which incorporates a range of defence engagement activity, was signed in December 2020. Whilst the UK Ministry of Defence regularly reviews cooperation with Israel, the agreement remains extant.

Al Carns
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for Veterans)
21st Apr 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what evidential threshold must be met before a sanctioned shadow fleet vessel may be boarded in UK territorial waters.

We keep maritime activity in UK territorial waters under constant review. We will not provide a running commentary or get into details of our decision-making process as this could compromise our ability to successfully take action against sanctioned ships, only benefitting our adversaries.

Al Carns
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for Veterans)
22nd Apr 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what steps he has taken to negotiate an administrative agreement with the European Defence Agency.

The Security and Defence Partnership agreed with the European Union in May 2025 is an example of this Government delivering on its manifesto commitments to strengthen European security, support growth, and reinforce NATO.

We will continue to prioritise engagement and cooperation on the issues that are most important in helping to safeguard European security and prosperity – all in support of this government’s NATO First defence policy as set out in the Security and Defence Review.

The Security and Defence Partnership outlines the possibility for establishing an Administrative Arrangement between the UK and the European Defence Agency. Officials remain in discussions with the EU to explore this.

Any potential future UK commitment – financial or otherwise – will ensure value for taxpayers and support wider defence priorities.

Luke Pollard
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
17th Apr 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what steps he is taking to help ensure UK compliance with the laws of war in relation to US bombing missions on Iran from UK bases.

The agreement allowing the US to use UK military bases is for specific and limited defensive action.

Permissions to utilise UK military bases by foreign partners are considered on a case-by-case basis. All UK operational support to allies and partners is carefully considered to ensure legality.

Al Carns
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for Veterans)
10th Mar 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, under what command structure will HMS Dragon be under upon arrival in the Eastern Mediterranean in order to ensure protection of Cyprus is coordinated with the naval presence of NATO allies in the region.

HMS Dragon is a sovereign UK deployment to protect the interests of the UK, and the interests of our allies in the Eastern Mediterranean.

The Royal Navy routinely operates alongside partners and allies, enabling the deconfliction of maritime and aviation assets to be embedded within routine operating procedures.

Full details remain classified to ensure UK operational advantage.

Al Carns
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for Veterans)
10th Mar 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how HMS Dragon will be deconflicted with NATO naval assets from a) the United States, b) France, c) Greece, d) Spain, e) Italy, f) the Netherlands and g) other allies once it arrives in the Eastern Mediterranean.

HMS Dragon is a sovereign UK deployment to protect the interests of the UK, and the interests of our allies in the Eastern Mediterranean.

The Royal Navy routinely operates alongside partners and allies, enabling the deconfliction of maritime and aviation assets to be embedded within routine operating procedures.

Full details remain classified to ensure UK operational advantage.

Al Carns
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for Veterans)
23rd Apr 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what progress his Department has made on the Type 83 design process; and whether it will be completed by 2038.

I refer the hon. Member to my response to question 106653 on 27 January 2026.

Luke Pollard
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
21st Apr 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what plans his Department has for the provision of simulation and training infrastructure to support the New Medium Helicopter programme.

The New Medium Helicopter (NMH) contract includes the provision of four Flight Simulation Training Devices (FSTDs). These will be housed at RAF Benson, along with associated training infrastructure.

Luke Pollard
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
21st Apr 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether (a) he or (b) any ministers in his department have held discussions with any nations excluding Italy and Japan on the Global Combat Air Programme.

The Secretary of State has regular discussions with his international counterparts on a range of issues.

We have always maintained that we remain open to others joining GCAP, however, the UK and GCAP partners, Italy and Japan, are focused on delivering this vital military capability at pace.

Luke Pollard
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
21st Apr 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how much will be spent on (a) core defence and (b) NATO qualifying defence spend in the current financial year as a cash figure.

I refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave to the hon. Member for Huntingdon (Mr Obese-Jecty) on 16 April 2026 to Question 124427.

Luke Pollard
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
21st Apr 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, pursuant to the Answer of 20 April 2026 to Question 124580 on Defence: Small Businesses, by what date he expects to have in place the wider range of indicators to measure his Department’s success in attracting new suppliers.

Subsequent to the establishment of the Defence Office for Small Business Growth in January, the Department is currently working to deliver full operating capability by the end of this year.

This activity is being aided by engagement with a pathfinder group of SMEs to ensure we are addressing the needs of smaller and non-traditional suppliers. As part of this work, we will develop a range of metrics to measure the impact of the Office.

Luke Pollard
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
21st Apr 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what is the total estimated cost as a cash figure of accepting and implementing all 62 recommendations of the Strategic Defence Review.

The Defence Investment Plan (DIP) will provide a comprehensive overview of the Department's forward investment priorities across equipment, infrastructure, people, and supporting capabilities.

Luke Pollard
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
21st Apr 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether he has ordered any Aster missiles since 5 July 2024.

I can confirm the Ministry of Defence has placed orders for Aster, Advanced Short Range Air-to-Air Missiles, Lightweight Multirole Missiles and Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System missiles since 5 July 2024. Deliveries of Common Anti-Air Modular Missiles, which are used by the Land Ceptor system, continue under an extant contract. As a former Defence Minister, the hon. Member will understand that I am withholding further details, including quantities ordered and delivered, for reasons of operational security.

Luke Pollard
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
21st Apr 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, pursuant to the Answer of 18 March to Question 119388 on Guided Weapons: Procurement, whether he has ordered any Land Ceptor missiles since 5 July 2024.

I can confirm the Ministry of Defence has placed orders for Aster, Advanced Short Range Air-to-Air Missiles, Lightweight Multirole Missiles and Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System missiles since 5 July 2024. Deliveries of Common Anti-Air Modular Missiles, which are used by the Land Ceptor system, continue under an extant contract. As a former Defence Minister, the hon. Member will understand that I am withholding further details, including quantities ordered and delivered, for reasons of operational security.

Luke Pollard
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
21st Apr 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, pursuant to the Answer of 18 March to Question 119387 on Guided Weapons: Procurement, whether he has ordered any Advanced Short Range Air-to-Air missiles since 5 July 2024.

I can confirm the Ministry of Defence has placed orders for Aster, Advanced Short Range Air-to-Air Missiles, Lightweight Multirole Missiles and Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System missiles since 5 July 2024. Deliveries of Common Anti-Air Modular Missiles, which are used by the Land Ceptor system, continue under an extant contract. As a former Defence Minister, the hon. Member will understand that I am withholding further details, including quantities ordered and delivered, for reasons of operational security.

Luke Pollard
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
21st Apr 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, pursuant to the Answer of 18 March to Question 119386 on Guided Weapons: Procurement, whether he has ordered any Lightweight Multirole missiles since 5 July 2024.

I can confirm the Ministry of Defence has placed orders for Aster, Advanced Short Range Air-to-Air Missiles, Lightweight Multirole Missiles and Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System missiles since 5 July 2024. Deliveries of Common Anti-Air Modular Missiles, which are used by the Land Ceptor system, continue under an extant contract. As a former Defence Minister, the hon. Member will understand that I am withholding further details, including quantities ordered and delivered, for reasons of operational security.

Luke Pollard
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
21st Apr 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how many orders he has made for air-to-air missiles since 5 July 2024.

I can confirm the Ministry of Defence has placed orders for Aster, Advanced Short Range Air-to-Air Missiles, Lightweight Multirole Missiles and Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System missiles since 5 July 2024. Deliveries of Common Anti-Air Modular Missiles, which are used by the Land Ceptor system, continue under an extant contract. As a former Defence Minister, the hon. Member will understand that I am withholding further details, including quantities ordered and delivered, for reasons of operational security.

Luke Pollard
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
21st Apr 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how many urgent repairs were requested for Service Family Accommodation from 23/03/26 to 06/04/26.

Between 23 March and 6 April 2026, a total of 1,639 requests were logged as urgent repair requests for Service Family Accommodation properties across the UK Defence estate.

A report that is detailing the breakdown of urgent repairs by their reason can be seen in the table below.

Category

Number of requests

BRICKLAYER WORKS

2

ELECTRICAL ENGINEER

288

GROUNDWORKS

4

HANDYMAN

5

HEAT/AIR SOURCE HEAT PUMP WORKS

5

HEATING REPRESSURISE SYSTEM WORKS

3

GAS ENGINEER WORKS

622

HEAT AND OIL WORKS

8

JOINER WORKS

181

MOULD TREATMENT WORKS

3

PEST CONTROL WORKS

15

PLUMBING WORKS

471

ROOFER WORKS

28

SPECIALIST WORKS

4

Grand Total

1,639

Luke Pollard
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
21st Apr 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, for what reason were urgent repairs requested for Service Family Accommodation from 23/03/26 to 06/04/26.

Between 23 March and 6 April 2026, a total of 1,639 requests were logged as urgent repair requests for Service Family Accommodation properties across the UK Defence estate.

A report that is detailing the breakdown of urgent repairs by their reason can be seen in the table below.

Category

Number of requests

BRICKLAYER WORKS

2

ELECTRICAL ENGINEER

288

GROUNDWORKS

4

HANDYMAN

5

HEAT/AIR SOURCE HEAT PUMP WORKS

5

HEATING REPRESSURISE SYSTEM WORKS

3

GAS ENGINEER WORKS

622

HEAT AND OIL WORKS

8

JOINER WORKS

181

MOULD TREATMENT WORKS

3

PEST CONTROL WORKS

15

PLUMBING WORKS

471

ROOFER WORKS

28

SPECIALIST WORKS

4

Grand Total

1,639

Luke Pollard
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
21st Apr 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how many complaints relating to the speed of maintenance for urgent repairs were received by Pinnacle Service Families from 23/03/26 to 06/04/26.

Between 23 March 2026 and 06 April 2026, Pinnacle received 16 complaints concerning the length of time taken to complete an urgent repair task.

Luke Pollard
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
21st Apr 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, pursuant to the Answer of 20 April 2026 to Question 125514 on Armed Forces: Housing, for what reason has the number of void service family properties in Huntingdon constituency increased from 19 to 99 since May 2025.

The figure of 19 void properties in May 2025 given in the Answer of 20 April 2026 to Question 125514 referred to void properties in the hon. Member's constituency which had been reacquired from Annington and that were not suitable for occupation; it did not reflect the total number of void properties.

As of 1 May 2025, there were a total of 108 void Service Family Accommodation (SFA) properties in the Huntingdon constituency.

As of 22 April 2026, there are a total of 98 void SFA properties in the Huntingdon constituency.

Luke Pollard
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
22nd Apr 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what recent progress he has made on delivering at least six new munitions factories.

Feasibility studies are planned to be contracted in Spring 2026, and to conclude in August 2026. The Ministry of Defence intends to announce investments in quarter 3 2026 with a view to beginning construction of the first factories before the end of the year.

Luke Pollard
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
22nd Apr 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how many new munitions factories have begun construction.

Feasibility studies are planned to be contracted in Spring 2026, and to conclude in August 2026. The Ministry of Defence intends to announce investments in quarter 3 2026 with a view to beginning construction of the first factories before the end of the year.

Luke Pollard
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
22nd Apr 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether construction has begun on the first munitions factory announced as part of the six new munitions factories in the Strategic Defence Review.

Feasibility studies are planned to be contracted in Spring 2026, and to conclude in August 2026. The Ministry of Defence intends to announce investments in quarter 3 2026 with a view to beginning construction of the first factories before the end of the year.

Luke Pollard
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
21st Apr 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, pursuant to the Answer of 18 December to Question 98837 on Cruise Missiles, whether the Review Note was submitted in Quarter 1 2026.

The SPEAR Capability 3 Review Note, which was subject to an extended consultation phase, has now been submitted and is under consideration by the approval authority.

Fielding this critical F-35 warfighting capability is targeted within the joint programme from financial year 2028-29; spiral capability upgrades across the programme life cycle will occur thereafter.

Luke Pollard
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
21st Apr 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, pursuant to the Answer of 18 December to Question 98837 on Cruise Missiles, when will Initial Operating Capability of the SPEAR Capability 3 programme be delivered.

The SPEAR Capability 3 Review Note, which was subject to an extended consultation phase, has now been submitted and is under consideration by the approval authority.

Fielding this critical F-35 warfighting capability is targeted within the joint programme from financial year 2028-29; spiral capability upgrades across the programme life cycle will occur thereafter.

Luke Pollard
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
21st Apr 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, pursuant to the Answer of 18 December to Question 98837 on Cruise Missiles, what were the findings of the Review Note to be submitted in Quarter 1 2026.

The SPEAR Capability 3 Review Note, which was subject to an extended consultation phase, has now been submitted and is under consideration by the approval authority.

Fielding this critical F-35 warfighting capability is targeted within the joint programme from financial year 2028-29; spiral capability upgrades across the programme life cycle will occur thereafter.

Luke Pollard
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
20th Apr 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, pursuant to the answer of 16 April 2026 to question 121654 on Navy: Dockyards, has the contract now been signed to extend the Future Maritime Support Programme (FMSP) to cover the period from April 2026 up to October 2028.

Progress continues to be made on the extension of the Future Maritime Support Programme. Contracts covering the majority of ship‑related services have been agreed, with the remaining elements in the process of finalisation, while arrangements are in place to ensure continuity of submarine support services ahead of a new contractual agreement expected to commence later in 2026.

Luke Pollard
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
20th Apr 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment he has made of levels in the availability of (a) anti-aircraft artillery, (b) electronic warfare, (c) low-cost interceptors and (d) other off-the-shelf mobile air defence systems.

The availability of air and missile defence capabilities is kept under continual review as part of Defence’s assessment of threats and the readiness of the Armed Forces. Readiness is directed through the Armed Forces Plan, in which the Chief of the Defence Staff directs Military Command Chiefs to hold a range of force elements at varying levels of readiness, aligned with the NATO Force Model, sovereign defence requirements, and our ability to respond to crisis. This readiness is assessed against the sum of Availability, Capability, and Sustainment.

The Strategic Defence Review announced up to £1 billion of investment during this Parliament in Integrated Air and Missile Defence, with an early focus on improving command and control and sensor capabilities to ensure more effective integration and use of available effectors. The Defence Investment Plan will further shape the sequencing and prioritisation of future investment, informed by the evolving threat picture.

As is longstanding policy, the Department does not comment in detail on the availability or readiness levels of specific capabilities where doing so could prejudice operational security.

Luke Pollard
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
20th Apr 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what steps his Department is taking to clear the backlog of outstanding Remediable Service Statements under the McCloud remedy; and what revised timetable he has set for impacted Armed Forces personnel to receive statements.

The Ministry of Defence is collaborating with the scheme administrator to accelerate the delivery of Remediable Service Statements (RSS) by increasing resources, implementing automation to reduce manual processing, and reallocating the workforce to allow staff to focus on the most complex cases.

The department is finalising the timeline for issuing all RSSs; this will be communicated to members once confirmed.

Regular progress updates are available to members at the following link on the Armed Forces Pensions gov.uk website:


https://www.gov.uk/guidance/pensions-and-compensation-for-veterans#remediable-service-statement-delivery-update

Louise Sandher-Jones
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence)
17th Apr 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what date range of claims for the War Pensions Scheme is currently being processed by officials.

As at 20 April 2026, War Pension Scheme (WPS) case workers are completing the initial scrutiny of claims received during the week commencing 21 December 2025.

To ensure workflow is managed effectively and fairly, all WPS cases are processed in strict date order, with priority given to those with a terminal illness and to claimants over the age of 90.

Louise Sandher-Jones
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence)
10th Apr 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, in each of the last 10 years, how many members of the Royal Fleet Auxiliary have died while a) undertaking training or b) while on active service.

One member of the Royal Fleet Auxillary is recorded as dying on duty by accident or injury in the past 10 years; this occurred in 2019.

All on duty deaths are investigated by the appropriate body such as the Maritime Accident Investigation Branch, Defence Accident Investigation Branch, or civilian police where necessary.

Louise Sandher-Jones
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence)
22nd Apr 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, when the Member for South Shropshire might expect to receive a reply to Written Question 107746 tabled on 22 January 2026.

I responded to the hon. Member on 24 April 2026.

Luke Pollard
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
17th Mar 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether his Department classifies publishing a video on social media filmed at a secret location in an operational theatre containing information that could allow adversaries to geolocate that location as a security incident that could compromise operational security and the safety of personnel.

On 7 March 2026 we further highlighted our support for Ukraine through our maintenance, repair and overhaul systems facilities in Ukraine. These pioneering facilities are helping keep Ukraine’s defiant Armed Forces in the fight against Putin’s brutal attacks and we are rightly proud of that support.

All social and press content was approved by the relevant Ministry of Defence processes ahead of publication, but because we take security seriously, we took steps to further reassure ourselves after publication of this content. The work in the MRO facility continues. From the factory floor to the frontline, the UK is standing with Ukraine and we will never waver in that support.

Luke Pollard
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
22nd Jan 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what percentage of consumable equipment in the defence supply chain is procured from China.

The Ministry of Defence (MOD) is always open to working with international companies, as long as our procurement guidelines are followed and our national security is kept safe.

Defence does use Chinese manufactured goods within its supply chain, though the percentage of consumable equipment is not centrally held. MOD Commercial Officers do, where necessary, work with their security advisers to conduct due diligence checks on suppliers of specific goods, particularly surveillance equipment, to ensure that they are not subject to Chinese National Intelligence Law.

Luke Pollard
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
19th Mar 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what progress has been made on allocating a share of the £182 million Defence Industrial Strategy skills package to Scotland.

The Defence Industrial Strategy committed £250 million to fund all five Defence Growth Deals across the UK, and announced an £182 million Defence Industry Skills Package.

On 12 March, we launched the £50 million Scotland Defence Growth Deal, and from the £20 million of funding allocated to the Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, we committed a £10 million investment towards the creation of two Defence Technical Excellence Colleges (DTECs). This will include one in the East and one in the West of Scotland, working in consultation with Colleges Scotland to develop the colleges.

I wrote with the Secretary of State for Scotland to the Scottish Government on 12 March asking them to match fund our DTEC commitment so we can deliver two not one DTEC in Scotland. I regret to report we have received no response from the Scottish Government so far.

Luke Pollard
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
19th Mar 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how much of Scotland’s Defence Growth Deal funding derives from the Defence Industrial Strategy skills package.

The Defence Industrial Strategy committed £250 million to fund all five Defence Growth Deals across the UK, and announced an £182 million Defence Industry Skills Package.

On 12 March, we launched the £50 million Scotland Defence Growth Deal, and from the £20 million of funding allocated to the Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, we committed a £10 million investment towards the creation of two Defence Technical Excellence Colleges (DTECs). This will include one in the East and one in the West of Scotland, working in consultation with Colleges Scotland to develop the colleges.

I wrote with the Secretary of State for Scotland to the Scottish Government on 12 March asking them to match fund our DTEC commitment so we can deliver two not one DTEC in Scotland. I regret to report we have received no response from the Scottish Government so far.

Luke Pollard
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
13th Apr 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, pursuant to the Answer of 30 January to Question 107732 on Type 45 Destroyers: Guided Weapons, what is the total cost of the upgrade to the Sea Viper missile system.

The current commitment of £405 million funds delivery and manufacture of Sea Viper Capability One and the assessment phase of Capability Two. As of 13 April 2026, the project has spent £218.6 million. The cost of delivering and manufacturing the Capability Two upgrade will be negotiated in due course.

Luke Pollard
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
13th Apr 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, pursuant to the Answer of 30 January to Question 107732 on Type 45 Destroyers: Guided Weapons, how much of the £405 million committed to upgrading the Sea Viper missile system had been spent on 13 April 2026.

The current commitment of £405 million funds delivery and manufacture of Sea Viper Capability One and the assessment phase of Capability Two. As of 13 April 2026, the project has spent £218.6 million. The cost of delivering and manufacturing the Capability Two upgrade will be negotiated in due course.

Luke Pollard
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
13th Apr 2026
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, pursuant to the Answer of 30 January to Question 107732 on Type 45 Destroyers: Guided Weapons, what is the total remaining cost of the upgrade to the Sea Viper missile system.

The current commitment of £405 million funds delivery and manufacture of Sea Viper Capability One and the assessment phase of Capability Two. As of 13 April 2026, the project has spent £218.6 million. The cost of delivering and manufacturing the Capability Two upgrade will be negotiated in due course.

Luke Pollard
Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)