Question to the Department for Business and Trade:

To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, what assessment he has made of the implications for his Department's policies of the response by the British Chambers of Commerce to the Milburn Review.

Answered by Kate Dearden - Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Business and Trade)

I welcome Milburn’s clear diagnosis and the British Chambers of Commerce’s endorsement. This is not a temporary problem and partnerships between employers and education providers are critical. We will consider Alan Milburn’s full recommendations in the autumn as we shape the next phase of reform.

The Employment Rights Act will improve job security, quality and fair pay, with young workers among the largest beneficiaries. The Industrial Strategy, commits £1.2bn each year for skills by 2028-29 to deliver more opportunities in high-growth sectors.

We are working with DWP to ensure every young person can access work, training and apprenticeship opportunities through the Youth Guarantee.

Question to the Department for Business and Trade:

To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, what steps he is taking to support SMEs in (a) Lincolnshire and (b) other rural areas with changes in (i) employment and (ii) energy costs.

Answered by Blair McDougall - Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Business and Trade)

The government is supporting small businesses, including those in Lincolnshire and rural areas, to start, scale and grow as part of the Plan for Small Businesses.

We are delivering our Plan to Make Work Pay by extending the protections already offered by many British employers to millions more workers across the country. We provide practical guidance and support for businesses and workers, alongside wider engagement and educational activity.

Government monitors the impact of international energy markets on businesses and stands ready to respond. The Chancellor recently announced that from 2027, the British Industrial Competitiveness Scheme will cut energy bills by up to 25% for over 10,000 manufacturers.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of changes in global energy prices on rural households that are not connected to the gas grid in Lincolnshire.

Answered by Martin McCluskey - Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

The Government recognises that recent global events have increased volatility in international energy markets, which has placed upward pressure on the price of off-grid fuels. The Government announced £53 million of support for vulnerable off-grid customers, distributed by local authorities through the Crisis and Resilience Fund. The Government continues to keep the price and market conditions of off-grid fuels under review as part of its wider consideration of energy affordability and fuel poverty.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment he has made of the capacity of the Army Training Centre Pirbright to accommodate (a) the Army Reserve basic training programme currently delivered at Army Training Regiment Grantham and (b) the recommended 20% increase in the Army Reserve.

Answered by Louise Sandher-Jones - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for the Armed Forces)

The co-location of the Army Reserve training capability with regular Army Training at Pirbright enables more efficient and flexible delivery of training. Resourcing and capacity to meet future requirements, including the recommended 20% increase in the Army Reserve, are routinely being reviewed to ensure they remain adequate.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what plans he has for the future basing of 167 Regiment Royal Logistic Corps following the closure of Prince William of Gloucester Barracks.

Answered by Louise Sandher-Jones - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for the Armed Forces)

167 Royal Logistic Corps and the Army Reserve School of Catering will be located at Kendrew Barracks, Cottesmore.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, where the Army Reserve School of Catering will be located following the planned closure of Prince William of Gloucester Barracks.

Answered by Louise Sandher-Jones - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for the Armed Forces)

167 Royal Logistic Corps and the Army Reserve School of Catering will be located at Kendrew Barracks, Cottesmore.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, by what date he expects the recommended 20% increase in the Army Reserve set out in the Strategic Defence Review 2025 to be achieved.

Answered by Louise Sandher-Jones - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for the Armed Forces)

As at 1 January 2026 - The Trained Strength of the Active Army Reserve Group A and S population was 17,512, this is against a target of 28,371

Figures for the Army Reserve intake for each of the last five years are below:

Group A and S Intake from 1 April 2020 to 31 March 2025

1. These figures will differ from populations reported in the Service Personnel Statistics.

2. Figures include Intake into the Trained and Untrained Population.

3. Figures include intake into Officers and Other Ranks.

4. Figures include intake from the Regular and other non-Group A reserve populations into Group A. (Figures exclude personnel who were FTRS returning to Army Reserve)

5. Group A - Regional and National headquarters, units and pools required to

6. provide a national reserve. This Group is available for employment on specific tasks at home and overseas.

7. Group S - Specialist Officers and ORs who are brought into the Army Reserve for their technical knowledge. This Group is available for employment on the full range of military tasks at home and overseas. This Group is employed in the specific role into which they have been recruited and may only assume leadership appointments within the specialty for which they were recruited.

The Army Reserve is implementing new initiatives to increase its strength and return to full liability at which point the Army Reserve will grow by a further 20%. The date is predicated upon a number of variables and cannot be forecast at this stage.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what the Army Reserve intake was in each of the last five years; and what annual intake will be required to deliver the recommended 20% increase in the Army Reserve.

Answered by Louise Sandher-Jones - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for the Armed Forces)

As at 1 January 2026 - The Trained Strength of the Active Army Reserve Group A and S population was 17,512, this is against a target of 28,371

Figures for the Army Reserve intake for each of the last five years are below:

Group A and S Intake from 1 April 2020 to 31 March 2025

1. These figures will differ from populations reported in the Service Personnel Statistics.

2. Figures include Intake into the Trained and Untrained Population.

3. Figures include intake into Officers and Other Ranks.

4. Figures include intake from the Regular and other non-Group A reserve populations into Group A. (Figures exclude personnel who were FTRS returning to Army Reserve)

5. Group A - Regional and National headquarters, units and pools required to

6. provide a national reserve. This Group is available for employment on specific tasks at home and overseas.

7. Group S - Specialist Officers and ORs who are brought into the Army Reserve for their technical knowledge. This Group is available for employment on the full range of military tasks at home and overseas. This Group is employed in the specific role into which they have been recruited and may only assume leadership appointments within the specialty for which they were recruited.

The Army Reserve is implementing new initiatives to increase its strength and return to full liability at which point the Army Reserve will grow by a further 20%. The date is predicated upon a number of variables and cannot be forecast at this stage.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what the current trained strength of the Army Reserve is; and what the target strength is.

Answered by Louise Sandher-Jones - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for the Armed Forces)

As at 1 January 2026 - The Trained Strength of the Active Army Reserve Group A and S population was 17,512, this is against a target of 28,371

Figures for the Army Reserve intake for each of the last five years are below:

Group A and S Intake from 1 April 2020 to 31 March 2025

1. These figures will differ from populations reported in the Service Personnel Statistics.

2. Figures include Intake into the Trained and Untrained Population.

3. Figures include intake into Officers and Other Ranks.

4. Figures include intake from the Regular and other non-Group A reserve populations into Group A. (Figures exclude personnel who were FTRS returning to Army Reserve)

5. Group A - Regional and National headquarters, units and pools required to

6. provide a national reserve. This Group is available for employment on specific tasks at home and overseas.

7. Group S - Specialist Officers and ORs who are brought into the Army Reserve for their technical knowledge. This Group is available for employment on the full range of military tasks at home and overseas. This Group is employed in the specific role into which they have been recruited and may only assume leadership appointments within the specialty for which they were recruited.

The Army Reserve is implementing new initiatives to increase its strength and return to full liability at which point the Army Reserve will grow by a further 20%. The date is predicated upon a number of variables and cannot be forecast at this stage.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether his Department has produced a plan to enhance the scale and agility of the Active and Strategic Reserves, which accounts for the closure of Army Training Regiment Grantham.

Answered by Louise Sandher-Jones - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for the Armed Forces)

As at 1 January 2026 - The Trained Strength of the Active Army Reserve Group A and S population was 17,512, this is against a target of 28,371

Figures for the Army Reserve intake for each of the last five years are below:

Group A and S Intake from 1 April 2020 to 31 March 2025

1. These figures will differ from populations reported in the Service Personnel Statistics.

2. Figures include Intake into the Trained and Untrained Population.

3. Figures include intake into Officers and Other Ranks.

4. Figures include intake from the Regular and other non-Group A reserve populations into Group A. (Figures exclude personnel who were FTRS returning to Army Reserve)

5. Group A - Regional and National headquarters, units and pools required to

6. provide a national reserve. This Group is available for employment on specific tasks at home and overseas.

7. Group S - Specialist Officers and ORs who are brought into the Army Reserve for their technical knowledge. This Group is available for employment on the full range of military tasks at home and overseas. This Group is employed in the specific role into which they have been recruited and may only assume leadership appointments within the specialty for which they were recruited.

The Army Reserve is implementing new initiatives to increase its strength and return to full liability at which point the Army Reserve will grow by a further 20%. The date is predicated upon a number of variables and cannot be forecast at this stage.

Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what steps his Department is taking to ensure that Community Diagnostic Centres are adequately staffed without removing hospital employees from areas such as acute patient care.

Answered by Sharon Hodgson - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department of Health and Social Care)

In April 2026, the Government announced our plan to open four new community diagnostic centres (CDCs) during 2026/27. We also announced a further 32 centres, which will be expanded and improved with new scanning equipment, outpatient clinic space and additional testing facilities. The 36 centres, backed by a £237 million Government investment, will significantly boost National Health Service diagnostic capacity and deliver more care in local communities.

All CDCs have been funded to purchase and install the equipment that is specific to each CDC’s individual requirements, including magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography scanners. Business cases for equipment are approved nationally, and each case is reviewed to ensure that it meets the expected standards to deliver clinical pathways and meet the needs of the local population. Local equipment procurement is coordinated through the NHS Supply Chain to ensure value for money.

Staffing models are determined locally by each host organisation for the CDC. Many trusts operate on a rotational model between the acute site and the CDC to ensure that acute care remains adequately staffed whilst supporting the opportunity for staff to train in a controlled elective environment. To further support staff recruitment and retention, NHS England funds practice educator posts across the clinical services delivered in CDCs. These posts support the preceptorship of newly qualified staff and provide undergraduate and postgraduate clinical support to clinical trainees.

Funding is currently available to install digital infrastructure to ensure that patient information, images, and reports flow seamlessly from CDCs to the rest of the healthcare system. NHS England is rolling out a National Imaging Registry, which will allow clinicians across England, including in CDCs, to access current and historic patient scans and reports, reducing the need to repeat scans if the patient presents in a different location.

Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what steps his Department is taking to help Community Diagnostic Centres to integrate digital infrastructure and data sharing into their operation.

Answered by Sharon Hodgson - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department of Health and Social Care)

In April 2026, the Government announced our plan to open four new community diagnostic centres (CDCs) during 2026/27. We also announced a further 32 centres, which will be expanded and improved with new scanning equipment, outpatient clinic space and additional testing facilities. The 36 centres, backed by a £237 million Government investment, will significantly boost National Health Service diagnostic capacity and deliver more care in local communities.

All CDCs have been funded to purchase and install the equipment that is specific to each CDC’s individual requirements, including magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography scanners. Business cases for equipment are approved nationally, and each case is reviewed to ensure that it meets the expected standards to deliver clinical pathways and meet the needs of the local population. Local equipment procurement is coordinated through the NHS Supply Chain to ensure value for money.

Staffing models are determined locally by each host organisation for the CDC. Many trusts operate on a rotational model between the acute site and the CDC to ensure that acute care remains adequately staffed whilst supporting the opportunity for staff to train in a controlled elective environment. To further support staff recruitment and retention, NHS England funds practice educator posts across the clinical services delivered in CDCs. These posts support the preceptorship of newly qualified staff and provide undergraduate and postgraduate clinical support to clinical trainees.

Funding is currently available to install digital infrastructure to ensure that patient information, images, and reports flow seamlessly from CDCs to the rest of the healthcare system. NHS England is rolling out a National Imaging Registry, which will allow clinicians across England, including in CDCs, to access current and historic patient scans and reports, reducing the need to repeat scans if the patient presents in a different location.

Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what steps his Department is taking to secure procurement pathways to ensure that Community Diagnostics Centres are equipped with up to date equipment, such as CT and MRI scanners.

Answered by Sharon Hodgson - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department of Health and Social Care)

In April 2026, the Government announced our plan to open four new community diagnostic centres (CDCs) during 2026/27. We also announced a further 32 centres, which will be expanded and improved with new scanning equipment, outpatient clinic space and additional testing facilities. The 36 centres, backed by a £237 million Government investment, will significantly boost National Health Service diagnostic capacity and deliver more care in local communities.

All CDCs have been funded to purchase and install the equipment that is specific to each CDC’s individual requirements, including magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography scanners. Business cases for equipment are approved nationally, and each case is reviewed to ensure that it meets the expected standards to deliver clinical pathways and meet the needs of the local population. Local equipment procurement is coordinated through the NHS Supply Chain to ensure value for money.

Staffing models are determined locally by each host organisation for the CDC. Many trusts operate on a rotational model between the acute site and the CDC to ensure that acute care remains adequately staffed whilst supporting the opportunity for staff to train in a controlled elective environment. To further support staff recruitment and retention, NHS England funds practice educator posts across the clinical services delivered in CDCs. These posts support the preceptorship of newly qualified staff and provide undergraduate and postgraduate clinical support to clinical trainees.

Funding is currently available to install digital infrastructure to ensure that patient information, images, and reports flow seamlessly from CDCs to the rest of the healthcare system. NHS England is rolling out a National Imaging Registry, which will allow clinicians across England, including in CDCs, to access current and historic patient scans and reports, reducing the need to repeat scans if the patient presents in a different location.

Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what steps his Department is taking to ensure that Community Diagnostics Centres receive funding and resources to keep equipment and facilities up to date.

Answered by Sharon Hodgson - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department of Health and Social Care)

In April 2026, the Government announced our plan to open four new community diagnostic centres (CDCs) during 2026/27. We also announced a further 32 centres, which will be expanded and improved with new scanning equipment, outpatient clinic space and additional testing facilities. The 36 centres, backed by a £237 million Government investment, will significantly boost National Health Service diagnostic capacity and deliver more care in local communities.

All CDCs have been funded to purchase and install the equipment that is specific to each CDC’s individual requirements, including magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography scanners. Business cases for equipment are approved nationally, and each case is reviewed to ensure that it meets the expected standards to deliver clinical pathways and meet the needs of the local population. Local equipment procurement is coordinated through the NHS Supply Chain to ensure value for money.

Staffing models are determined locally by each host organisation for the CDC. Many trusts operate on a rotational model between the acute site and the CDC to ensure that acute care remains adequately staffed whilst supporting the opportunity for staff to train in a controlled elective environment. To further support staff recruitment and retention, NHS England funds practice educator posts across the clinical services delivered in CDCs. These posts support the preceptorship of newly qualified staff and provide undergraduate and postgraduate clinical support to clinical trainees.

Funding is currently available to install digital infrastructure to ensure that patient information, images, and reports flow seamlessly from CDCs to the rest of the healthcare system. NHS England is rolling out a National Imaging Registry, which will allow clinicians across England, including in CDCs, to access current and historic patient scans and reports, reducing the need to repeat scans if the patient presents in a different location.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment he has made of the contribution of Prince William of Gloucester Barracks to domestic resilience, including its role in the assembly of mobile testing centres during the covid-19 pandemic.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)

Prince William of Gloucester (PWoG) Barracks is included in Joint Military Command (JMC) Centre contingency plans for potential resilience operations, along with all other available Defence locations in their Area of Operations. JMC Centre are aware of the pending closure of PWoG Barracks and will adjust contingency plans accordingly when the site is no longer available.

The Barracks currently host HQ 102 Operational Support Brigade, 167 Catering Support Regiment RLC, 294 Supply Squadron of 159 Regiment RLC, Army Training Regiment Grantham (ATR(G)), and various lodger units. Following the planned closure of the site, the planned moves for these units are as follows: ATR(G) is scheduled to relocate to Alexander Barracks, Pirbright; 102 Operational Support Brigade to Munster Barracks, Catterick; and the Royal Logistic Corps and lodger units to Kendrew Barracks, Cottesmore.

The closure of PWoG Barracks is being managed under the Defence Estate Optimisation programme, an intent announced by the previous Government in Parliament in 2016 which remains unchanged. As the site is becoming surplus to military requirements, the Ministry of Defence (MOD) is required to release it to ensure best value for the taxpayer; therefore, no separate business case for disposal exists.

The Defence Infrastructure Organisation is part of the MOD. It works closely with Army stakeholders, and is delivering the development of the new training centre at Pirbright, which will meet current and future defence needs and render the Barracks surplus.

Extensive consultation has been undertaken with the Army Reserve, local authorities, stakeholders, local residents, and service families regarding the closure of ATR(G). The MoD remains committed to closing PWoG Barracks only when alternative Army Reserve basic training capacity is fully established and operational.

A comprehensive Value for Money assessment has been conducted as part of the project management for the new bespoke non-infantry basic training centre, which will provide sufficient capacity to meet training and Reserve requirements while delivering efficiencies. Regarding the costs of relocating units and training functions from PWoG Barracks, these vary depending on size, complexity, commercial movement rates, and distance; such forecast costs are commercially sensitive and therefore not disclosed.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what units are currently headquartered or based at Prince William of Gloucester Barracks; and where each will be relocated following the site’s planned closure.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)

Prince William of Gloucester (PWoG) Barracks is included in Joint Military Command (JMC) Centre contingency plans for potential resilience operations, along with all other available Defence locations in their Area of Operations. JMC Centre are aware of the pending closure of PWoG Barracks and will adjust contingency plans accordingly when the site is no longer available.

The Barracks currently host HQ 102 Operational Support Brigade, 167 Catering Support Regiment RLC, 294 Supply Squadron of 159 Regiment RLC, Army Training Regiment Grantham (ATR(G)), and various lodger units. Following the planned closure of the site, the planned moves for these units are as follows: ATR(G) is scheduled to relocate to Alexander Barracks, Pirbright; 102 Operational Support Brigade to Munster Barracks, Catterick; and the Royal Logistic Corps and lodger units to Kendrew Barracks, Cottesmore.

The closure of PWoG Barracks is being managed under the Defence Estate Optimisation programme, an intent announced by the previous Government in Parliament in 2016 which remains unchanged. As the site is becoming surplus to military requirements, the Ministry of Defence (MOD) is required to release it to ensure best value for the taxpayer; therefore, no separate business case for disposal exists.

The Defence Infrastructure Organisation is part of the MOD. It works closely with Army stakeholders, and is delivering the development of the new training centre at Pirbright, which will meet current and future defence needs and render the Barracks surplus.

Extensive consultation has been undertaken with the Army Reserve, local authorities, stakeholders, local residents, and service families regarding the closure of ATR(G). The MoD remains committed to closing PWoG Barracks only when alternative Army Reserve basic training capacity is fully established and operational.

A comprehensive Value for Money assessment has been conducted as part of the project management for the new bespoke non-infantry basic training centre, which will provide sufficient capacity to meet training and Reserve requirements while delivering efficiencies. Regarding the costs of relocating units and training functions from PWoG Barracks, these vary depending on size, complexity, commercial movement rates, and distance; such forecast costs are commercially sensitive and therefore not disclosed.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether the Government's planned closure of Prince William of Gloucester Barracks is being managed under the Defence Estate Optimisation programme; and what the most recent review date of that programme was.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)

Prince William of Gloucester (PWoG) Barracks is included in Joint Military Command (JMC) Centre contingency plans for potential resilience operations, along with all other available Defence locations in their Area of Operations. JMC Centre are aware of the pending closure of PWoG Barracks and will adjust contingency plans accordingly when the site is no longer available.

The Barracks currently host HQ 102 Operational Support Brigade, 167 Catering Support Regiment RLC, 294 Supply Squadron of 159 Regiment RLC, Army Training Regiment Grantham (ATR(G)), and various lodger units. Following the planned closure of the site, the planned moves for these units are as follows: ATR(G) is scheduled to relocate to Alexander Barracks, Pirbright; 102 Operational Support Brigade to Munster Barracks, Catterick; and the Royal Logistic Corps and lodger units to Kendrew Barracks, Cottesmore.

The closure of PWoG Barracks is being managed under the Defence Estate Optimisation programme, an intent announced by the previous Government in Parliament in 2016 which remains unchanged. As the site is becoming surplus to military requirements, the Ministry of Defence (MOD) is required to release it to ensure best value for the taxpayer; therefore, no separate business case for disposal exists.

The Defence Infrastructure Organisation is part of the MOD. It works closely with Army stakeholders, and is delivering the development of the new training centre at Pirbright, which will meet current and future defence needs and render the Barracks surplus.

Extensive consultation has been undertaken with the Army Reserve, local authorities, stakeholders, local residents, and service families regarding the closure of ATR(G). The MoD remains committed to closing PWoG Barracks only when alternative Army Reserve basic training capacity is fully established and operational.

A comprehensive Value for Money assessment has been conducted as part of the project management for the new bespoke non-infantry basic training centre, which will provide sufficient capacity to meet training and Reserve requirements while delivering efficiencies. Regarding the costs of relocating units and training functions from PWoG Barracks, these vary depending on size, complexity, commercial movement rates, and distance; such forecast costs are commercially sensitive and therefore not disclosed.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what consultation his Department has undertaken with i) the Army Reserve, ii) local authorities and stakeholders, and iii) local residents and service families on the closure of Army Training Regiment Grantham.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)

Prince William of Gloucester (PWoG) Barracks is included in Joint Military Command (JMC) Centre contingency plans for potential resilience operations, along with all other available Defence locations in their Area of Operations. JMC Centre are aware of the pending closure of PWoG Barracks and will adjust contingency plans accordingly when the site is no longer available.

The Barracks currently host HQ 102 Operational Support Brigade, 167 Catering Support Regiment RLC, 294 Supply Squadron of 159 Regiment RLC, Army Training Regiment Grantham (ATR(G)), and various lodger units. Following the planned closure of the site, the planned moves for these units are as follows: ATR(G) is scheduled to relocate to Alexander Barracks, Pirbright; 102 Operational Support Brigade to Munster Barracks, Catterick; and the Royal Logistic Corps and lodger units to Kendrew Barracks, Cottesmore.

The closure of PWoG Barracks is being managed under the Defence Estate Optimisation programme, an intent announced by the previous Government in Parliament in 2016 which remains unchanged. As the site is becoming surplus to military requirements, the Ministry of Defence (MOD) is required to release it to ensure best value for the taxpayer; therefore, no separate business case for disposal exists.

The Defence Infrastructure Organisation is part of the MOD. It works closely with Army stakeholders, and is delivering the development of the new training centre at Pirbright, which will meet current and future defence needs and render the Barracks surplus.

Extensive consultation has been undertaken with the Army Reserve, local authorities, stakeholders, local residents, and service families regarding the closure of ATR(G). The MoD remains committed to closing PWoG Barracks only when alternative Army Reserve basic training capacity is fully established and operational.

A comprehensive Value for Money assessment has been conducted as part of the project management for the new bespoke non-infantry basic training centre, which will provide sufficient capacity to meet training and Reserve requirements while delivering efficiencies. Regarding the costs of relocating units and training functions from PWoG Barracks, these vary depending on size, complexity, commercial movement rates, and distance; such forecast costs are commercially sensitive and therefore not disclosed.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what discussions his Department has had with the Defence Infrastructure Organisation on whether the disposal of Prince William of Gloucester Barracks remains consistent with current defence requirements.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)

Prince William of Gloucester (PWoG) Barracks is included in Joint Military Command (JMC) Centre contingency plans for potential resilience operations, along with all other available Defence locations in their Area of Operations. JMC Centre are aware of the pending closure of PWoG Barracks and will adjust contingency plans accordingly when the site is no longer available.

The Barracks currently host HQ 102 Operational Support Brigade, 167 Catering Support Regiment RLC, 294 Supply Squadron of 159 Regiment RLC, Army Training Regiment Grantham (ATR(G)), and various lodger units. Following the planned closure of the site, the planned moves for these units are as follows: ATR(G) is scheduled to relocate to Alexander Barracks, Pirbright; 102 Operational Support Brigade to Munster Barracks, Catterick; and the Royal Logistic Corps and lodger units to Kendrew Barracks, Cottesmore.

The closure of PWoG Barracks is being managed under the Defence Estate Optimisation programme, an intent announced by the previous Government in Parliament in 2016 which remains unchanged. As the site is becoming surplus to military requirements, the Ministry of Defence (MOD) is required to release it to ensure best value for the taxpayer; therefore, no separate business case for disposal exists.

The Defence Infrastructure Organisation is part of the MOD. It works closely with Army stakeholders, and is delivering the development of the new training centre at Pirbright, which will meet current and future defence needs and render the Barracks surplus.

Extensive consultation has been undertaken with the Army Reserve, local authorities, stakeholders, local residents, and service families regarding the closure of ATR(G). The MoD remains committed to closing PWoG Barracks only when alternative Army Reserve basic training capacity is fully established and operational.

A comprehensive Value for Money assessment has been conducted as part of the project management for the new bespoke non-infantry basic training centre, which will provide sufficient capacity to meet training and Reserve requirements while delivering efficiencies. Regarding the costs of relocating units and training functions from PWoG Barracks, these vary depending on size, complexity, commercial movement rates, and distance; such forecast costs are commercially sensitive and therefore not disclosed.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, if he will place in the Library a copy of the business case for the disposal of Prince William of Gloucester Barracks.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)

Prince William of Gloucester (PWoG) Barracks is included in Joint Military Command (JMC) Centre contingency plans for potential resilience operations, along with all other available Defence locations in their Area of Operations. JMC Centre are aware of the pending closure of PWoG Barracks and will adjust contingency plans accordingly when the site is no longer available.

The Barracks currently host HQ 102 Operational Support Brigade, 167 Catering Support Regiment RLC, 294 Supply Squadron of 159 Regiment RLC, Army Training Regiment Grantham (ATR(G)), and various lodger units. Following the planned closure of the site, the planned moves for these units are as follows: ATR(G) is scheduled to relocate to Alexander Barracks, Pirbright; 102 Operational Support Brigade to Munster Barracks, Catterick; and the Royal Logistic Corps and lodger units to Kendrew Barracks, Cottesmore.

The closure of PWoG Barracks is being managed under the Defence Estate Optimisation programme, an intent announced by the previous Government in Parliament in 2016 which remains unchanged. As the site is becoming surplus to military requirements, the Ministry of Defence (MOD) is required to release it to ensure best value for the taxpayer; therefore, no separate business case for disposal exists.

The Defence Infrastructure Organisation is part of the MOD. It works closely with Army stakeholders, and is delivering the development of the new training centre at Pirbright, which will meet current and future defence needs and render the Barracks surplus.

Extensive consultation has been undertaken with the Army Reserve, local authorities, stakeholders, local residents, and service families regarding the closure of ATR(G). The MoD remains committed to closing PWoG Barracks only when alternative Army Reserve basic training capacity is fully established and operational.

A comprehensive Value for Money assessment has been conducted as part of the project management for the new bespoke non-infantry basic training centre, which will provide sufficient capacity to meet training and Reserve requirements while delivering efficiencies. Regarding the costs of relocating units and training functions from PWoG Barracks, these vary depending on size, complexity, commercial movement rates, and distance; such forecast costs are commercially sensitive and therefore not disclosed.

Question to the Department for Business and Trade:

To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of business energy costs on private sector activity.

Answered by Chris McDonald - Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

The Government recognises that electricity prices are an important factor in private sector activity of UK-based businesses and is dedicated to bringing electricity costs for recipients closer in line with those charged in competitor countries. We engage regularly with industry and monitor evidence on the impact of energy costs.

Through our Industrial Strategy we are taking action to address these challenges, including through the British Industrial Competitiveness Scheme, which reduce electricity costs by up to £40/MWh for eligible businesses.

The Network Charging Compensation scheme was uplifted from 60% to 90% relief from 1s April 2026. This raised total support from the Supercharger to approximately £65-87/MWh.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether a net value-for-money assessment of the disposal of Prince William of Gloucester Barracks has been conducted that accounts for the cost of replacing its training and logistics functions.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)

Prince William of Gloucester (PWoG) Barracks is included in Joint Military Command (JMC) Centre contingency plans for potential resilience operations, along with all other available Defence locations in their Area of Operations. JMC Centre are aware of the pending closure of PWoG Barracks and will adjust contingency plans accordingly when the site is no longer available.

The Barracks currently host HQ 102 Operational Support Brigade, 167 Catering Support Regiment RLC, 294 Supply Squadron of 159 Regiment RLC, Army Training Regiment Grantham (ATR(G)), and various lodger units. Following the planned closure of the site, the planned moves for these units are as follows: ATR(G) is scheduled to relocate to Alexander Barracks, Pirbright; 102 Operational Support Brigade to Munster Barracks, Catterick; and the Royal Logistic Corps and lodger units to Kendrew Barracks, Cottesmore.

The closure of PWoG Barracks is being managed under the Defence Estate Optimisation programme, an intent announced by the previous Government in Parliament in 2016 which remains unchanged. As the site is becoming surplus to military requirements, the Ministry of Defence (MOD) is required to release it to ensure best value for the taxpayer; therefore, no separate business case for disposal exists.

The Defence Infrastructure Organisation is part of the MOD. It works closely with Army stakeholders, and is delivering the development of the new training centre at Pirbright, which will meet current and future defence needs and render the Barracks surplus.

Extensive consultation has been undertaken with the Army Reserve, local authorities, stakeholders, local residents, and service families regarding the closure of ATR(G). The MoD remains committed to closing PWoG Barracks only when alternative Army Reserve basic training capacity is fully established and operational.

A comprehensive Value for Money assessment has been conducted as part of the project management for the new bespoke non-infantry basic training centre, which will provide sufficient capacity to meet training and Reserve requirements while delivering efficiencies. Regarding the costs of relocating units and training functions from PWoG Barracks, these vary depending on size, complexity, commercial movement rates, and distance; such forecast costs are commercially sensitive and therefore not disclosed.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, if he will commit to not closing Prince William of Gloucester Barracks until alternative Army Reserve basic training capacity has been established and is operational.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)

Prince William of Gloucester (PWoG) Barracks is included in Joint Military Command (JMC) Centre contingency plans for potential resilience operations, along with all other available Defence locations in their Area of Operations. JMC Centre are aware of the pending closure of PWoG Barracks and will adjust contingency plans accordingly when the site is no longer available.

The Barracks currently host HQ 102 Operational Support Brigade, 167 Catering Support Regiment RLC, 294 Supply Squadron of 159 Regiment RLC, Army Training Regiment Grantham (ATR(G)), and various lodger units. Following the planned closure of the site, the planned moves for these units are as follows: ATR(G) is scheduled to relocate to Alexander Barracks, Pirbright; 102 Operational Support Brigade to Munster Barracks, Catterick; and the Royal Logistic Corps and lodger units to Kendrew Barracks, Cottesmore.

The closure of PWoG Barracks is being managed under the Defence Estate Optimisation programme, an intent announced by the previous Government in Parliament in 2016 which remains unchanged. As the site is becoming surplus to military requirements, the Ministry of Defence (MOD) is required to release it to ensure best value for the taxpayer; therefore, no separate business case for disposal exists.

The Defence Infrastructure Organisation is part of the MOD. It works closely with Army stakeholders, and is delivering the development of the new training centre at Pirbright, which will meet current and future defence needs and render the Barracks surplus.

Extensive consultation has been undertaken with the Army Reserve, local authorities, stakeholders, local residents, and service families regarding the closure of ATR(G). The MoD remains committed to closing PWoG Barracks only when alternative Army Reserve basic training capacity is fully established and operational.

A comprehensive Value for Money assessment has been conducted as part of the project management for the new bespoke non-infantry basic training centre, which will provide sufficient capacity to meet training and Reserve requirements while delivering efficiencies. Regarding the costs of relocating units and training functions from PWoG Barracks, these vary depending on size, complexity, commercial movement rates, and distance; such forecast costs are commercially sensitive and therefore not disclosed.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what estimate he has made of the cost of relocating the units and training functions based at Prince William of Gloucester Barracks.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)

Prince William of Gloucester (PWoG) Barracks is included in Joint Military Command (JMC) Centre contingency plans for potential resilience operations, along with all other available Defence locations in their Area of Operations. JMC Centre are aware of the pending closure of PWoG Barracks and will adjust contingency plans accordingly when the site is no longer available.

The Barracks currently host HQ 102 Operational Support Brigade, 167 Catering Support Regiment RLC, 294 Supply Squadron of 159 Regiment RLC, Army Training Regiment Grantham (ATR(G)), and various lodger units. Following the planned closure of the site, the planned moves for these units are as follows: ATR(G) is scheduled to relocate to Alexander Barracks, Pirbright; 102 Operational Support Brigade to Munster Barracks, Catterick; and the Royal Logistic Corps and lodger units to Kendrew Barracks, Cottesmore.

The closure of PWoG Barracks is being managed under the Defence Estate Optimisation programme, an intent announced by the previous Government in Parliament in 2016 which remains unchanged. As the site is becoming surplus to military requirements, the Ministry of Defence (MOD) is required to release it to ensure best value for the taxpayer; therefore, no separate business case for disposal exists.

The Defence Infrastructure Organisation is part of the MOD. It works closely with Army stakeholders, and is delivering the development of the new training centre at Pirbright, which will meet current and future defence needs and render the Barracks surplus.

Extensive consultation has been undertaken with the Army Reserve, local authorities, stakeholders, local residents, and service families regarding the closure of ATR(G). The MoD remains committed to closing PWoG Barracks only when alternative Army Reserve basic training capacity is fully established and operational.

A comprehensive Value for Money assessment has been conducted as part of the project management for the new bespoke non-infantry basic training centre, which will provide sufficient capacity to meet training and Reserve requirements while delivering efficiencies. Regarding the costs of relocating units and training functions from PWoG Barracks, these vary depending on size, complexity, commercial movement rates, and distance; such forecast costs are commercially sensitive and therefore not disclosed.

Question to the Department for Business and Trade:

To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, what assessment he has made of the potential implications for his policies of the Confederation of British Industry's Growth Indicator forecast that private sector activity will fall by a net balance of 24 per cent in the three months to August 2026.

Answered by Chris McDonald - Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

We know many businesses are facing difficulties and the situation in the Middle East is adding to their costs. We continue to promote growth through our Industrial Strategy, regulatory reform and other steps to ensure the UK remains competitive and its economic fundamentals remain strong.

Government is working closely with business groups and industry leaders to understand the pressures facing industry and develop measures to support. For example, the British Industrial Competitiveness Scheme will reduce costs for over 10,000 businesses. We are also putting in place safeguards and unlocking opportunities through international collaboration, as we have done with our FTAs in India and the GCC.

The UK had the fastest growing economy in the G7 in Q1 2026, and the IMF recently upgraded its UK growth forecast for 2026 and 2027, placing the UK 3^rd in the G7 for both.

Question to the Department for Business and Trade:

To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, what assessment he has made of the Institute of Directors' finding that 75 per cent of businesses cite UK economic conditions as a negative factor affecting their organisation.

Answered by Chris McDonald - Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

We know many businesses are facing difficulties and the situation in the Middle East is adding to their costs. We continue to promote growth through our Industrial Strategy, regulatory reform and other steps to ensure the UK remains competitive and its economic fundamentals remain strong.

Government is working closely with business groups and industry leaders to understand the pressures facing industry and develop measures to support. For example, the British Industrial Competitiveness Scheme will reduce costs for over 10,000 businesses. We are also putting in place safeguards and unlocking opportunities through international collaboration, as we have done with our FTAs in India and the GCC.

The UK had the fastest growing economy in the G7 in Q1 2026, and the IMF recently upgraded its UK growth forecast for 2026 and 2027, placing the UK 3^rd in the G7 for both.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of relocating Army Reserve basic training away from Grantham on the geographic accessibility of training for reservists in civilian employment.

Answered by Louise Sandher-Jones - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for the Armed Forces)

The Army is currently conducting an Army Reserve Basic Training Review which will make recommendations by Autumn 2026. This review will provide options for the future delivery of Army Reserve Basic Training across the United Kingdom.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how many additional instructors and permanent staff will be required to deliver Army Reserve basic training at alternative sites following the closure of Army Training Regiment Grantham.

Answered by Louise Sandher-Jones - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for the Armed Forces)

The Army is currently conducting an Army Reserve Basic Training Review which will make recommendations by Autumn 2026. This review will provide options for the future delivery of Army Reserve Basic Training across the United Kingdom.

Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what assessment his Department has made of the potential merits of the inclusion of commercial laundry in the UK Government’s Resilience Action Plan, in the context of the role the sector plays in fulfilling NHS laundry fulfilment.

Answered by Sharon Hodgson - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department of Health and Social Care)

The Resilience Action Plan sets out the Government’s approach to improving the United Kingdom’s domestic resilience, and we work closely with partners across the health and social care sector to strengthen resilience to a range of risks. While the Resilience Action Plan does not specifically reference the commercial laundry sector, we recognise the importance of the laundry sector, and the National Health Service works closely with all critical suppliers on resilience planning.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to the Answer of 9 June 2026 to Question 5729, where the new bespoke non-infantry basic training centre will be located; what the timeline is for its opening and expansion; what its expected capacity will be; and how it will deliver efficiencies.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)

I refer the hon. Member to my answer of 9 June 2026 to Question 5729, in which I confirmed that the Defence Infrastructure Organisation is delivering the development of a bespoke non-infantry basic training centre of excellence at Pirbright. This facility will meet current and future defence requirements and will enable the disposal of Prince William of Gloucester Barracks. Co-location of Army Training at Pirbright will provide more efficient and flexible training provision. Future training requirements and associated resourcing will continue to be routinely reviewed.

Prince William of Gloucester Barracks will close once alternative Army Reserve basic training capacity is fully established and operational. As indicated on the GOV.uk disposal database, this is expected to take place from 2029 onwards.

Regarding the location of infantry reserve basic training currently provided at Army Training Regiment Grantham following the planned closure of Prince William of Gloucester Barracks, the Regiment will relocate to Pirbright. Additionally, a network of regional training hubs will continue to operate across the country to support reservists. The precise number and nature of these hubs will be determined through the ongoing Army Reserve Basic Training Review.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to the Answer of 9 June 2026 to Question 5729, where infantry reserve basic training currently provided at Army Training Regiment Grantham will take place following the planned closure of Prince William of Gloucester Barracks.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)

I refer the hon. Member to my answer of 9 June 2026 to Question 5729, in which I confirmed that the Defence Infrastructure Organisation is delivering the development of a bespoke non-infantry basic training centre of excellence at Pirbright. This facility will meet current and future defence requirements and will enable the disposal of Prince William of Gloucester Barracks. Co-location of Army Training at Pirbright will provide more efficient and flexible training provision. Future training requirements and associated resourcing will continue to be routinely reviewed.

Prince William of Gloucester Barracks will close once alternative Army Reserve basic training capacity is fully established and operational. As indicated on the GOV.uk disposal database, this is expected to take place from 2029 onwards.

Regarding the location of infantry reserve basic training currently provided at Army Training Regiment Grantham following the planned closure of Prince William of Gloucester Barracks, the Regiment will relocate to Pirbright. Additionally, a network of regional training hubs will continue to operate across the country to support reservists. The precise number and nature of these hubs will be determined through the ongoing Army Reserve Basic Training Review.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to the Answer of 9 June 2026 to Question 5724, whether the decision that Prince William of Gloucester Barracks is surplus to military requirement has been reviewed by Ministers since 2016.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)

I refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave to him on 4 June 2026, to Question 5468. No alternative military requirement has been identified for Prince William of Gloucester Barracks.

https://questions-statements.parliament.uk/written-questions/detail/2026-06-01/5468

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of consolidating Army Reserve basic training at Alexander Barracks, Pirbright on the recruitment and retention of reservists from i) the Midlands, ii) North of England and iii) Scotland.

Answered by Louise Sandher-Jones - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for the Armed Forces)

The consolidation of Army Reserve basic training at Alexander Barracks, Pirbright, will not result in training being delivered exclusively from a single location. While the Army Training Regiment will relocate from Prince William of Gloucester Barracks, Grantham, to Pirbright. A network of regional training hubs will continue to operate across the country to support reservists.

The exact number and type of hubs will be determined by the ongoing Army Reserve Basic Training Review.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what use is made of the training area at Prince William of Gloucester Barracks; and what equivalent facilities will be available at receiving locations following the planned closure of that site.

Answered by Louise Sandher-Jones - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for the Armed Forces)

The training area adjacent to Prince William of Gloucester Barracks is currently used by resident units for basic training activity, and by other units in the region for driving training. Following the planned closure of the Barracks, these training requirements will be provided at the receiving units’ new locations and elsewhere across the Defence Estate.

The Prince William of Gloucester Barracks is not designated as a mobilisation and mounting centre for Reserve forces nor is it required for such purposes.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether the Army Reserve Basic Training Review will include an assessment of the accessibility of training locations for reservists who travel to training in their own time alongside civilian employment.

Answered by Louise Sandher-Jones - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for the Armed Forces)

The Army Reserve Basic Training Review is currently ongoing and will comprehensively consider all relevant factors affecting reservists, including the delivery and location of training to ensure it meets the needs of the Reserve Force effectively.

At this stage it is not possible to provide precise projections regarding the proportion of Army Reserve basic training that Alexander Barracks, Pirbright, will deliver annually from 2028 to 2032.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of of delivering Army Reserve basic training from a single site at Alexander Barracks, Pirbright on resilience.

Answered by Louise Sandher-Jones - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for the Armed Forces)

The consolidation of Army Reserve basic training at Alexander Barracks, Pirbright, will not result in training being delivered exclusively from a single location. While the Army Training Regiment will relocate from Prince William of Gloucester Barracks, Grantham, to Pirbright. A network of regional training hubs will continue to operate across the country to support reservists.

The exact number and type of hubs will be determined by the ongoing Army Reserve Basic Training Review.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment he has made of the adequacy of Prince William of Gloucester Barracks as a mobilisation and mounting centre for Reserve forces.

Answered by Louise Sandher-Jones - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for the Armed Forces)

The training area adjacent to Prince William of Gloucester Barracks is currently used by resident units for basic training activity, and by other units in the region for driving training. Following the planned closure of the Barracks, these training requirements will be provided at the receiving units’ new locations and elsewhere across the Defence Estate.

The Prince William of Gloucester Barracks is not designated as a mobilisation and mounting centre for Reserve forces nor is it required for such purposes.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, pursuant to the data in the Answer of 4 June 2026 to UIN 5471, what proportion of Army Reserve basic training he expects Alexander Barracks, Pirbright to deliver in each year from 2028 to 2032.

Answered by Louise Sandher-Jones - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for the Armed Forces)

The Army Reserve Basic Training Review is currently ongoing and will comprehensively consider all relevant factors affecting reservists, including the delivery and location of training to ensure it meets the needs of the Reserve Force effectively.

At this stage it is not possible to provide precise projections regarding the proportion of Army Reserve basic training that Alexander Barracks, Pirbright, will deliver annually from 2028 to 2032.

Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what assessment he has made of trends in the level of youth unemployment in (a) Grantham and Bourne constituency and (b) Lincolnshire.

Answered by Diana Johnson - Minister of State (Department for Work and Pensions)

The information requested on trends in levels of unemployment is published and available at: https://www.nomisweb.co.uk/default.asp and the guidance for users can be found at:

https://www.nomisweb.co.uk/home/newuser.asp.

The estimated unemployment levels and rates can be found by selecting “Query data” on the NOMIS home page and selecting “Annual Population Survey/Labour Force Survey” and then “annual population survey (Dec 2004 to Dec 2025)” in the lists of data sources. The Geography will need to be set for the relevant Westminster constituency and county from the menus, and then, in the Variable menu, Category set to “Unemployment rate” from the drop-down list to access 16-24 year old unemployment.

ONS suppress results based on small samples on the Annual Population Survey. Claimant Count information by age is available from the “2024 Parliamentary Constituencies Profile” and “Local Authority Profile” menus at the same website.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to the Answer of 9 June 2026 to Question 5722, what assessment he has made of the potential impact on personnel and their families of relocating the units currently based at Prince William of Gloucester Barracks to three separate locations at Pirbright, Catterick and Cottesmore.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)

The Department has engaged closely and consistently with the relevant Local Authority regarding the allocation of the Prince William of Gloucester Barracks site within the Local Plan since the decision to dispose of the site was announced.

In addition, two open drop-in public consultation events were held in November 2024, attended by a broad range of stakeholders, including local residents, service families, community groups, and other interested parties, to provide feedback and raise concerns.

Regarding the impact on Service personnel and their families of relocating units currently based at Prince William of Gloucester Barracks to Pirbright, Catterick, and Cottesmore, the Army has well-established support mechanisms to assist personnel with relocations, which are a routine aspect of Service life. These include comprehensive welfare support, family liaison services, and assistance with housing and schooling to mitigate disruption and ensure the wellbeing of personnel and their families throughout the transition.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to the Answer of 9 June 2026 to Question 5727, on what dates, in what format, and with which categories of participants the consultation with local residents and service families on the closure of Army Training Regiment Grantham was undertaken.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)

The Department has engaged closely and consistently with the relevant Local Authority regarding the allocation of the Prince William of Gloucester Barracks site within the Local Plan since the decision to dispose of the site was announced.

In addition, two open drop-in public consultation events were held in November 2024, attended by a broad range of stakeholders, including local residents, service families, community groups, and other interested parties, to provide feedback and raise concerns.

Regarding the impact on Service personnel and their families of relocating units currently based at Prince William of Gloucester Barracks to Pirbright, Catterick, and Cottesmore, the Army has well-established support mechanisms to assist personnel with relocations, which are a routine aspect of Service life. These include comprehensive welfare support, family liaison services, and assistance with housing and schooling to mitigate disruption and ensure the wellbeing of personnel and their families throughout the transition.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to the Answer of 9 June 2026 to Question 5727, (a) on what dates, (b) in what format, and (c) with which organisation the consultation with (i) local authorities and (ii) stakeholders on the closure of Army Training Regiment Grantham was undertaken.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)

The Department has engaged closely and consistently with the relevant Local Authority regarding the allocation of the Prince William of Gloucester Barracks site within the Local Plan since the decision to dispose of the site was announced.

In addition, two open drop-in public consultation events were held in November 2024, attended by a broad range of stakeholders, including local residents, service families, community groups, and other interested parties, to provide feedback and raise concerns.

Regarding the impact on Service personnel and their families of relocating units currently based at Prince William of Gloucester Barracks to Pirbright, Catterick, and Cottesmore, the Army has well-established support mechanisms to assist personnel with relocations, which are a routine aspect of Service life. These include comprehensive welfare support, family liaison services, and assistance with housing and schooling to mitigate disruption and ensure the wellbeing of personnel and their families throughout the transition.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to the Answer of 9 June 2026 to Question 5721, what assessment Joint Military Command Centre has made of the resilience capability that will be lost when Prince William of Gloucester Barracks is no longer available; and which location will assume its role in contingency plans for resilience operations.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)

Contingency plans will be adjusted accordingly when the site is no longer available. Location of resilience sites is sensitive operational information and therefore cannot be disclosed.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what assessment she has made of the cumulative impact on business of tax measures announced in the Autumn Budgets of 2024 and 2025.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

The Government has assessed the cumulative impacts of measures announced over recent Budgets on businesses and households. Taken together, these measures raise revenue to support the public finances in a fair way, whilst providing targeted support. The Government recognises that recent policy changes will have combined effects on some businesses. Where changes are made, relevant assessments and impact notes are published to inform stakeholders.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, who is leading the Army Reserve Basic Training Review and which external stakeholders are being consulted.

Answered by Louise Sandher-Jones - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for the Armed Forces)

The establishment of the Army Reserve Basic Training Review has not been formally announced to Parliament as it is in internal MOD review, commissioned by Headquarters Soldier Academy. This Headquarters is responsible for all Army Soldier Basic Training and authorised the review as part of continuous improvement activity. The initial request for support to undertake the review was submitted in August 2024, prior to the publication of the Strategic Defence Review 2025, with the review commencing in July 2025.

The review aims to assess whether the current Army Reserve Basic Training operating model, covering how, who, and where training is delivered, is fit for purpose and to provide options aligned with the Army’s current and future Reserve requirements. Its scope includes unit and infrastructure laydown, training delivery model, workforce requirements, and administrative and logistic support, covering all Soldier Academy Basic Training locations. No external stakeholders are being consulted.

There is no requirement, or expectation, that the review’s findings or recommendations will be published. The Terms of Reference for the review are intended for an internal audience and therefore will not be published.

Regarding Prince William of Gloucester Barracks, Grantham, the planned closure and disposal will not be paused or reconsidered as part of this review, as estate disposal decisions are not in scope.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether the recommendations of the Army Reserve Basic Training Review will be published.

Answered by Louise Sandher-Jones - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for the Armed Forces)

The establishment of the Army Reserve Basic Training Review has not been formally announced to Parliament as it is in internal MOD review, commissioned by Headquarters Soldier Academy. This Headquarters is responsible for all Army Soldier Basic Training and authorised the review as part of continuous improvement activity. The initial request for support to undertake the review was submitted in August 2024, prior to the publication of the Strategic Defence Review 2025, with the review commencing in July 2025.

The review aims to assess whether the current Army Reserve Basic Training operating model, covering how, who, and where training is delivered, is fit for purpose and to provide options aligned with the Army’s current and future Reserve requirements. Its scope includes unit and infrastructure laydown, training delivery model, workforce requirements, and administrative and logistic support, covering all Soldier Academy Basic Training locations. No external stakeholders are being consulted.

There is no requirement, or expectation, that the review’s findings or recommendations will be published. The Terms of Reference for the review are intended for an internal audience and therefore will not be published.

Regarding Prince William of Gloucester Barracks, Grantham, the planned closure and disposal will not be paused or reconsidered as part of this review, as estate disposal decisions are not in scope.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, pursuant to the Answer of 4 June 2026 to UIN 5711, whether the establishment of the Army Reserve Basic Training Review has been announced to Parliament.

Answered by Louise Sandher-Jones - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for the Armed Forces)

The establishment of the Army Reserve Basic Training Review has not been formally announced to Parliament as it is in internal MOD review, commissioned by Headquarters Soldier Academy. This Headquarters is responsible for all Army Soldier Basic Training and authorised the review as part of continuous improvement activity. The initial request for support to undertake the review was submitted in August 2024, prior to the publication of the Strategic Defence Review 2025, with the review commencing in July 2025.

The review aims to assess whether the current Army Reserve Basic Training operating model, covering how, who, and where training is delivered, is fit for purpose and to provide options aligned with the Army’s current and future Reserve requirements. Its scope includes unit and infrastructure laydown, training delivery model, workforce requirements, and administrative and logistic support, covering all Soldier Academy Basic Training locations. No external stakeholders are being consulted.

There is no requirement, or expectation, that the review’s findings or recommendations will be published. The Terms of Reference for the review are intended for an internal audience and therefore will not be published.

Regarding Prince William of Gloucester Barracks, Grantham, the planned closure and disposal will not be paused or reconsidered as part of this review, as estate disposal decisions are not in scope.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether the findings of the Army Reserve Basic Training Review could result in Army Training Regiment Grantham being retained beyond the planned disposal date of Prince William of Gloucester Barracks.

Answered by Louise Sandher-Jones - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for the Armed Forces)

The establishment of the Army Reserve Basic Training Review has not been formally announced to Parliament as it is in internal MOD review, commissioned by Headquarters Soldier Academy. This Headquarters is responsible for all Army Soldier Basic Training and authorised the review as part of continuous improvement activity. The initial request for support to undertake the review was submitted in August 2024, prior to the publication of the Strategic Defence Review 2025, with the review commencing in July 2025.

The review aims to assess whether the current Army Reserve Basic Training operating model, covering how, who, and where training is delivered, is fit for purpose and to provide options aligned with the Army’s current and future Reserve requirements. Its scope includes unit and infrastructure laydown, training delivery model, workforce requirements, and administrative and logistic support, covering all Soldier Academy Basic Training locations. No external stakeholders are being consulted.

There is no requirement, or expectation, that the review’s findings or recommendations will be published. The Terms of Reference for the review are intended for an internal audience and therefore will not be published.

Regarding Prince William of Gloucester Barracks, Grantham, the planned closure and disposal will not be paused or reconsidered as part of this review, as estate disposal decisions are not in scope.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what the scope of the Army Reserve Basic Training Review is and which training establishments are within its scope.

Answered by Louise Sandher-Jones - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for the Armed Forces)

The establishment of the Army Reserve Basic Training Review has not been formally announced to Parliament as it is in internal MOD review, commissioned by Headquarters Soldier Academy. This Headquarters is responsible for all Army Soldier Basic Training and authorised the review as part of continuous improvement activity. The initial request for support to undertake the review was submitted in August 2024, prior to the publication of the Strategic Defence Review 2025, with the review commencing in July 2025.

The review aims to assess whether the current Army Reserve Basic Training operating model, covering how, who, and where training is delivered, is fit for purpose and to provide options aligned with the Army’s current and future Reserve requirements. Its scope includes unit and infrastructure laydown, training delivery model, workforce requirements, and administrative and logistic support, covering all Soldier Academy Basic Training locations. No external stakeholders are being consulted.

There is no requirement, or expectation, that the review’s findings or recommendations will be published. The Terms of Reference for the review are intended for an internal audience and therefore will not be published.

Regarding Prince William of Gloucester Barracks, Grantham, the planned closure and disposal will not be paused or reconsidered as part of this review, as estate disposal decisions are not in scope.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, who commissioned the Army Reserve Basic Training Review; and at what level it was authorised.

Answered by Louise Sandher-Jones - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for the Armed Forces)

The establishment of the Army Reserve Basic Training Review has not been formally announced to Parliament as it is in internal MOD review, commissioned by Headquarters Soldier Academy. This Headquarters is responsible for all Army Soldier Basic Training and authorised the review as part of continuous improvement activity. The initial request for support to undertake the review was submitted in August 2024, prior to the publication of the Strategic Defence Review 2025, with the review commencing in July 2025.

The review aims to assess whether the current Army Reserve Basic Training operating model, covering how, who, and where training is delivered, is fit for purpose and to provide options aligned with the Army’s current and future Reserve requirements. Its scope includes unit and infrastructure laydown, training delivery model, workforce requirements, and administrative and logistic support, covering all Soldier Academy Basic Training locations. No external stakeholders are being consulted.

There is no requirement, or expectation, that the review’s findings or recommendations will be published. The Terms of Reference for the review are intended for an internal audience and therefore will not be published.

Regarding Prince William of Gloucester Barracks, Grantham, the planned closure and disposal will not be paused or reconsidered as part of this review, as estate disposal decisions are not in scope.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether the Army Reserve Basic Training Review was commissioned before the publication of the Strategic Defence Review 2025.

Answered by Louise Sandher-Jones - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for the Armed Forces)

The establishment of the Army Reserve Basic Training Review has not been formally announced to Parliament as it is in internal MOD review, commissioned by Headquarters Soldier Academy. This Headquarters is responsible for all Army Soldier Basic Training and authorised the review as part of continuous improvement activity. The initial request for support to undertake the review was submitted in August 2024, prior to the publication of the Strategic Defence Review 2025, with the review commencing in July 2025.

The review aims to assess whether the current Army Reserve Basic Training operating model, covering how, who, and where training is delivered, is fit for purpose and to provide options aligned with the Army’s current and future Reserve requirements. Its scope includes unit and infrastructure laydown, training delivery model, workforce requirements, and administrative and logistic support, covering all Soldier Academy Basic Training locations. No external stakeholders are being consulted.

There is no requirement, or expectation, that the review’s findings or recommendations will be published. The Terms of Reference for the review are intended for an internal audience and therefore will not be published.

Regarding Prince William of Gloucester Barracks, Grantham, the planned closure and disposal will not be paused or reconsidered as part of this review, as estate disposal decisions are not in scope.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, on what date the Army Reserve Basic Training Review commenced.

Answered by Louise Sandher-Jones - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for the Armed Forces)

The establishment of the Army Reserve Basic Training Review has not been formally announced to Parliament as it is in internal MOD review, commissioned by Headquarters Soldier Academy. This Headquarters is responsible for all Army Soldier Basic Training and authorised the review as part of continuous improvement activity. The initial request for support to undertake the review was submitted in August 2024, prior to the publication of the Strategic Defence Review 2025, with the review commencing in July 2025.

The review aims to assess whether the current Army Reserve Basic Training operating model, covering how, who, and where training is delivered, is fit for purpose and to provide options aligned with the Army’s current and future Reserve requirements. Its scope includes unit and infrastructure laydown, training delivery model, workforce requirements, and administrative and logistic support, covering all Soldier Academy Basic Training locations. No external stakeholders are being consulted.

There is no requirement, or expectation, that the review’s findings or recommendations will be published. The Terms of Reference for the review are intended for an internal audience and therefore will not be published.

Regarding Prince William of Gloucester Barracks, Grantham, the planned closure and disposal will not be paused or reconsidered as part of this review, as estate disposal decisions are not in scope.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, pursuant to the Answer of 4 June 2026 to Question 5711 on Army Reserve: Training, whether he has considered the potential merits of awaiting the conclusion of the Army Reserve Basic Training Review before proceeding with the closure of Prince William of Gloucester Barracks.

Answered by Louise Sandher-Jones - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for the Armed Forces)

The establishment of the Army Reserve Basic Training Review has not been formally announced to Parliament as it is in internal MOD review, commissioned by Headquarters Soldier Academy. This Headquarters is responsible for all Army Soldier Basic Training and authorised the review as part of continuous improvement activity. The initial request for support to undertake the review was submitted in August 2024, prior to the publication of the Strategic Defence Review 2025, with the review commencing in July 2025.

The review aims to assess whether the current Army Reserve Basic Training operating model, covering how, who, and where training is delivered, is fit for purpose and to provide options aligned with the Army’s current and future Reserve requirements. Its scope includes unit and infrastructure laydown, training delivery model, workforce requirements, and administrative and logistic support, covering all Soldier Academy Basic Training locations. No external stakeholders are being consulted.

There is no requirement, or expectation, that the review’s findings or recommendations will be published. The Terms of Reference for the review are intended for an internal audience and therefore will not be published.

Regarding Prince William of Gloucester Barracks, Grantham, the planned closure and disposal will not be paused or reconsidered as part of this review, as estate disposal decisions are not in scope.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, pursuant to the Answer of 4 June 2026 to Question 5711 on Army Reserve: Training, whether the disposal of Prince William of Gloucester Barracks will be paused until the Army Reserve Basic Training Review has reported and its recommendations have been considered.

Answered by Louise Sandher-Jones - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for the Armed Forces)

The establishment of the Army Reserve Basic Training Review has not been formally announced to Parliament as it is in internal MOD review, commissioned by Headquarters Soldier Academy. This Headquarters is responsible for all Army Soldier Basic Training and authorised the review as part of continuous improvement activity. The initial request for support to undertake the review was submitted in August 2024, prior to the publication of the Strategic Defence Review 2025, with the review commencing in July 2025.

The review aims to assess whether the current Army Reserve Basic Training operating model, covering how, who, and where training is delivered, is fit for purpose and to provide options aligned with the Army’s current and future Reserve requirements. Its scope includes unit and infrastructure laydown, training delivery model, workforce requirements, and administrative and logistic support, covering all Soldier Academy Basic Training locations. No external stakeholders are being consulted.

There is no requirement, or expectation, that the review’s findings or recommendations will be published. The Terms of Reference for the review are intended for an internal audience and therefore will not be published.

Regarding Prince William of Gloucester Barracks, Grantham, the planned closure and disposal will not be paused or reconsidered as part of this review, as estate disposal decisions are not in scope.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, pursuant to the Answer of 4 June 2026 to Question 5711 on Army Reserve: Training, for what reason the Army Reserve Basic Training Review was commissioned.

Answered by Louise Sandher-Jones - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for the Armed Forces)

The establishment of the Army Reserve Basic Training Review has not been formally announced to Parliament as it is in internal MOD review, commissioned by Headquarters Soldier Academy. This Headquarters is responsible for all Army Soldier Basic Training and authorised the review as part of continuous improvement activity. The initial request for support to undertake the review was submitted in August 2024, prior to the publication of the Strategic Defence Review 2025, with the review commencing in July 2025.

The review aims to assess whether the current Army Reserve Basic Training operating model, covering how, who, and where training is delivered, is fit for purpose and to provide options aligned with the Army’s current and future Reserve requirements. Its scope includes unit and infrastructure laydown, training delivery model, workforce requirements, and administrative and logistic support, covering all Soldier Academy Basic Training locations. No external stakeholders are being consulted.

There is no requirement, or expectation, that the review’s findings or recommendations will be published. The Terms of Reference for the review are intended for an internal audience and therefore will not be published.

Regarding Prince William of Gloucester Barracks, Grantham, the planned closure and disposal will not be paused or reconsidered as part of this review, as estate disposal decisions are not in scope.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, if he will publish the terms of reference of the Army Reserve Basic Training Review.

Answered by Louise Sandher-Jones - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for the Armed Forces)

The establishment of the Army Reserve Basic Training Review has not been formally announced to Parliament as it is in internal MOD review, commissioned by Headquarters Soldier Academy. This Headquarters is responsible for all Army Soldier Basic Training and authorised the review as part of continuous improvement activity. The initial request for support to undertake the review was submitted in August 2024, prior to the publication of the Strategic Defence Review 2025, with the review commencing in July 2025.

The review aims to assess whether the current Army Reserve Basic Training operating model, covering how, who, and where training is delivered, is fit for purpose and to provide options aligned with the Army’s current and future Reserve requirements. Its scope includes unit and infrastructure laydown, training delivery model, workforce requirements, and administrative and logistic support, covering all Soldier Academy Basic Training locations. No external stakeholders are being consulted.

There is no requirement, or expectation, that the review’s findings or recommendations will be published. The Terms of Reference for the review are intended for an internal audience and therefore will not be published.

Regarding Prince William of Gloucester Barracks, Grantham, the planned closure and disposal will not be paused or reconsidered as part of this review, as estate disposal decisions are not in scope.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, pursuant to the Answer of 4 June 2026 to UIN 5711, what assessment he has made of the value for money of disposing of Prince William of Gloucester Barracks.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)

I refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave him on 9 June 2026, to Question 5729:

Prince William of Gloucester (PWoG) Barracks is included in Joint Military Command (JMC) Centre contingency plans for potential resilience operations, along with all other available Defence locations in their Area of Operations. JMC Centre are aware of the pending closure of PWoG Barracks and will adjust contingency plans accordingly when the site is no longer available.

The Barracks currently host HQ 102 Operational Support Brigade, 167 Catering Support Regiment RLC, 294 Supply Squadron of 159 Regiment RLC, Army Training Regiment Grantham (ATR(G)), and various lodger units. Following the planned closure of the site, the planned moves for these units are as follows: ATR(G) is scheduled to relocate to Alexander Barracks, Pirbright; 102 Operational Support Brigade to Munster Barracks, Catterick; and the Royal Logistic Corps and lodger units to Kendrew Barracks, Cottesmore.

The closure of PWoG Barracks is being managed under the Defence Estate Optimisation programme, an intent announced by the previous Government in Parliament in 2016 which remains unchanged. As the site is becoming surplus to military requirements, the Ministry of Defence (MOD) is required to release it to ensure best value for the taxpayer; therefore, no separate business case for disposal exists.

The Defence Infrastructure Organisation is part of the MOD. It works closely with Army stakeholders, and is delivering the development of the new training centre at Pirbright, which will meet current and future defence needs and render the Barracks surplus.

Extensive consultation has been undertaken with the Army Reserve, local authorities, stakeholders, local residents, and service families regarding the closure of ATR(G). The MOD remains committed to closing PWoG Barracks only when alternative Army Reserve basic training capacity is fully established and operational.

A comprehensive Value for Money assessment has been conducted as part of the project management for the new bespoke non-infantry basic training centre, which will provide sufficient capacity to meet training and Reserve requirements while delivering efficiencies. Regarding the costs of relocating units and training functions from PWoG Barracks, these vary depending on size, complexity, commercial movement rates, and distance; such forecast costs are commercially sensitive and therefore not disclosed.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, which units and headquarters are currently based at Prince William of Gloucester Barracks.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)

I refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave on 9 June 2026, to Question 5722:

Prince William of Gloucester (PWoG) Barracks is included in Joint Military Command (JMC) Centre contingency plans for potential resilience operations, along with all other available Defence locations in their Area of Operations. JMC Centre are aware of the pending closure of PWoG Barracks and will adjust contingency plans accordingly when the site is no longer available.

The Barracks currently host HQ 102 Operational Support Brigade, 167 Catering Support Regiment RLC, 294 Supply Squadron of 159 Regiment RLC, Army Training Regiment Grantham (ATR(G)), and various lodger units. Following the planned closure of the site, the planned moves for these units are as follows: ATR(G) is scheduled to relocate to Alexander Barracks, Pirbright; 102 Operational Support Brigade to Munster Barracks, Catterick; and the Royal Logistic Corps and lodger units to Kendrew Barracks, Cottesmore.

The closure of PWoG Barracks is being managed under the Defence Estate Optimisation programme, an intent announced by the previous Government in Parliament in 2016 which remains unchanged. As the site is becoming surplus to military requirements, the Ministry of Defence (MOD) is required to release it to ensure best value for the taxpayer; therefore, no separate business case for disposal exists.

The Defence Infrastructure Organisation is part of the MOD. It works closely with Army stakeholders, and is delivering the development of the new training centre at Pirbright, which will meet current and future defence needs and render the Barracks surplus.

Extensive consultation has been undertaken with the Army Reserve, local authorities, stakeholders, local residents, and service families regarding the closure of ATR(G). The MOD remains committed to closing PWoG Barracks only when alternative Army Reserve basic training capacity is fully established and operational.

A comprehensive Value for Money assessment has been conducted as part of the project management for the new bespoke non-infantry basic training centre, which will provide sufficient capacity to meet training and Reserve requirements while delivering efficiencies. Regarding the costs of relocating units and training functions from PWoG Barracks, these vary depending on size, complexity, commercial movement rates, and distance; such forecast costs are commercially sensitive and therefore not disclosed.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment he has made of the level of capacity required to train an Army Reserve that is 20 per cent larger than its current target size; and whether the planned facilities at Alexander Barracks, Pirbright will be sufficient to meet that capacity.

Answered by Louise Sandher-Jones - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for the Armed Forces)

I refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave to him on 10 June 2026, to Question 6844.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what is the current Army Reserve basic training capacity of Alexander Barracks, Pirbright; and what estimate he has made of the additional capacity required at Alexander Barracks, Pirbright given the proposed closure of Army Training Regiment Grantham.

Answered by Louise Sandher-Jones - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for the Armed Forces)

I refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave to him on 10 June 2026, to Question 6844.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of closing Army Training Regiment Grantham on the deliverability of the Strategic Defence Review 2025 recommendation to increase the size of the Army Reserve by 20 per cent.

Answered by Louise Sandher-Jones - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for the Armed Forces)

I refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave to him on 10 June 2026, to Question 6844.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to the Answer of 9 June 2026 to Question 5728, on what date he expects alternative Army Reserve basic training capacity at Alexander Barracks, Pirbright replicating that currently at Prince William of Gloucester Barracks to be established and operational.

Answered by Louise Sandher-Jones - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for the Armed Forces)

I refer the hon. Member to the answer given to him on 10 June 2026, to Question 7549.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to the Answer of 4 June 2026 to Question 5711, whether the Army Reserve Basic Training Review is considering the retention of Army Training Regiment Grantham as an option for the future delivery of Army Reserve basic training across the United Kingdom.

Answered by Louise Sandher-Jones - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for the Armed Forces)

I refer the hon. Member to the answer given to him on 10 June 2026, to Question 7549.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether his Department has reviewed the potential merits of closing the Prince William of Gloucester Barracks since the publication of the Strategic Defence Review 2025.

Answered by Louise Sandher-Jones - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for the Armed Forces)

I refer the hon. Member to the answer given to him on 10 June 2026, to Question 7549.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether the decision to dispose of Prince William of Gloucester Barracks was taken before the commissioning of the Army Reserve Basic Training Review.

Answered by Louise Sandher-Jones - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for the Armed Forces)

I refer the hon. Member to the answer given to him on 10 June 2026, to Question 7549.

Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, when his Department plans to publish data on corridor care in hospitals.

Answered by Karin Smyth - Minister of State (Department of Health and Social Care)

NHS England published data on corridor care for the first time on Thursday 11 June.

NHS England has worked closely with clinical partners, including the Royal College of Emergency Medicine, to establish a consistent national definition and approach to monitoring corridor care. A national definition and daily reporting arrangements were introduced in March 2026, with the aim of improving visibility of pressures and supporting targeted action to reduce instances of corridor care.

The Government is clear that corridor care is not acceptable and should not be considered as standard practice.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to the Answer of 9 June 2026 to Question 5728, how the commitment to close Prince William of Gloucester Barracks only when alternative Army Reserve basic training capacity is fully established and operational can be reconciled with the Army Reserve Basic Training Review, which has not yet determined the future delivery of Army Reserve basic training across the United Kingdom.

Answered by Louise Sandher-Jones - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for the Armed Forces)

I refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave to him on 9 June 2026, to Question 5728

The Ministry of Defence remains committed to closing Prince William of Gloucester Barracks only when alternative Army Reserve basic training capacity is fully established and operational.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to the Answer of 4 June 2026 to Question 5467, what evidence base was used to conclude that the disposal of Prince William of Gloucester Barracks does not reduce Army Reserve training capacity; and whether that assessment will be published.

Answered by Louise Sandher-Jones - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for the Armed Forces)

I refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave to him on 9 June 2026, to Question 5728

The Ministry of Defence remains committed to closing Prince William of Gloucester Barracks only when alternative Army Reserve basic training capacity is fully established and operational.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what recent assessment she has made of the potential impact of employer national insurance contribution increases on business recruitment.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what assessment she has made of the impact of the level of taxes on the disposable incomes of working households.

Answered by Torsten Bell - Parliamentary Secretary (HM Treasury)

The Office for National Statistics publishes the “Effects of taxes and benefits on UK household income” report which sets out the level of taxes paid and benefits received by household type and income group. This includes direct and indirect taxes, as well as benefits in cash and in kind, to show their combined effect on household income. The most recent data is from the financial year 2023–24.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what assessment she has made of the impact of the level of gilt yields on forecast debt interest costs over the period 2026-27 to 2030-31.

Answered by Torsten Bell - Parliamentary Secretary (HM Treasury)

Forecasts are produced independently by the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR), which incorporates market expectations for gilt yields alongside other determinants of debt interest, including inflation and the stock and composition of government debt.

The OBR’s most recent forecast, including for debt interest costs, are available in the March 2026 Economic and Fiscal Outlook linked here: https://obr.uk/efo/economic-and-fiscal-outlook-march-2026/

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what assessment she has made of the potential implications for her policies of the rise in 30-year gilt yields to 5.772 per cent on 12 May 2026.

Answered by Torsten Bell - Parliamentary Secretary (HM Treasury)

The government does not comment on specific financial market movements. Gilt yields are determined by a wide range of international and domestic factors.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of reductions in the Defence training estate on the likelihood of achieving the Strategic Defence Review 2025's reserve personnel targets.

Answered by Louise Sandher-Jones - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for the Armed Forces)

Last year, this Government set out a clear, long-term vision to transform Defence through the Strategic Defence Review (SDR) 2025, establishing a path for the next decade and beyond.

The SDR is clear that Reserve Forces are integral to a future force, with an emphasis on increasing the proportion of trained, deployable and routinely utilised personnel. This Government is committed to increasing the proportion of active reserves by 20%, when funding allows. Delivery of this ambition is dependent on a range of enablers, including the suitability and accessibility of the Defence training estate.

The Ministry of Defence recognises that the training estate is a critical component of force generation and readiness. Accordingly, any reductions or rationalisation of the estate are assessed against their impact on operational outputs, including the ability of both Regulars and Reserves to train effectively.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what recent assessment she has made of the impact of inflation on household living costs.

Answered by Torsten Bell - Parliamentary Secretary (HM Treasury)

Headline inflation decreased from 3.3% in March to 2.8% in April, driven mainly by lower household energy bills and a fall in services inflation. Food and non-alcoholic beverage inflation fell from 3.7% in March to 3.0% in April.

The Government has already taken action to reduce the cost of living, including taking £150 off energy bills this year, freezing rail fares and NHS prescription charges, raising the National Living Wage, and extending the £3 bus cap.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what assessment she has made of the implications for economic growth of tax reaching a forecast 38.5 per cent of GDP.

Answered by Torsten Bell - Parliamentary Secretary (HM Treasury)

The government has made fair and necessary choices on tax so it can deliver on the public’s priorities. The UK’s current tax-to-GDP ratio remains in the middle of the pack within the G7.

Whilst the government does not publish forecasts of economic growth, the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) published their latest Economic and Fiscal Outlook (EFO) in March 2026, including forecasts for economic growth.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what assessment she has made of the potential implications for her policies of the statement by the Governor of the Bank of England's that recent experience of high inflation may make households and businesses more sensitive to a new inflationary shock.

Answered by Torsten Bell - Parliamentary Secretary (HM Treasury)

Low and stable inflation is vital for growth and investment. The independent Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) at the Bank of England are responsible monetary policy, and the MPC has the government’s full support as it acts to return inflation to target sustainably.

The most important thing the government can do to bring down inflation is to get borrowing down and stick to our fiscal rules. We have already reduced borrowing by nearly 1% of GDP in the last year and we are set to reduce borrowing faster than any other G7 country by 2030.

We have also supported the MPC by directly bearing down on prices. Action taken at the Budget will reduce inflation by 0.4ppt in 2026-27, through measures on energy bills, transport costs and fuel duty.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how much is the annual running cost of Army Training Regiment Grantham for which the latest data is available; and whether he has made an estimate of the annual running cost of providing the equivalent training capacity of Army Training Regiment Grantham at Alexander Barracks, Pirbright.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)

As referenced in my previous answer of 9 June 2026 to Question 6104, a comprehensive Value for Money assessment has been conducted to inform the current plan. This assessment includes detailed consideration of capital costs, moving costs, running costs, disposal receipts, as well as non-financial benefits and disbenefits. The economic case demonstrates that the disposal of Prince William of Gloucester (PWoG) Barracks represents positive value to the public purse.

While exact capital cost figures remain commercially sensitive, the economic case estimates that providing equivalent training capacity at Alexander Barracks, Pirbright will result in reduced running costs across both infrastructure and personnel, thereby contributing to overall savings.

Precise annual running costs of Grantham are not centralised and could only be provided at disproportionate cost. Regarding the annual running cost of providing the equivalent training capacity of Army Training Regiment Grantham at Alexander Barracks, Pirbright, I refer the honourable member to the answer provided by my hon. Friend, the Minister for Veterans and Personnel, on 4 June 2026 to Question 5714. Until future plans are fully determined, it is not possible to provide precise costing estimates at this time. Furthermore, the department does not routinely release forecast figures.

With respect to an aggregate estimate or range of the total cost of relocating the units and training functions based at Prince William of Gloucester Barracks, as noted in my previous response, such forecast costs are commercially sensitive and therefore cannot be disclosed.

The approved plan represents a financially prudent approach that balances capital investment with ongoing savings, ensuring the continued delivery of high-quality Army Reserve training in a sustainable and cost-effective manner.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to the Answer of 9 June 2026 to Question 5729, whether the Value for Money assessment assessed the net cost of disposing of Prince William of Gloucester Barracks, including the cost of replacing its training and logistics functions, or solely the cost of the new training centre at Alexander Barracks, Pirbright.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)

While there are no plans to publish the assessments, I can confirm that the Value for Money (VfM) assessments considered all the reprovisions linked to the disposal of the Prince William of Gloucester Barracks (PWoG) and on this basis the VfM position of the multiple programme moves was established.

PWoG Barracks has been identified for disposal when it becomes surplus to Military requirements. At the point any site is declared surplus we are required to ensure best value for the taxpayer, and this is usually identified as disposal of the site.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to the Answer of 9 June 2026 to Question 6104, what the evidential basis is for determining that disposal of the Prince William of Gloucester Barracks delivers best value for the taxpayer.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)

While there are no plans to publish the assessments, I can confirm that the Value for Money (VfM) assessments considered all the reprovisions linked to the disposal of the Prince William of Gloucester Barracks (PWoG) and on this basis the VfM position of the multiple programme moves was established.

PWoG Barracks has been identified for disposal when it becomes surplus to Military requirements. At the point any site is declared surplus we are required to ensure best value for the taxpayer, and this is usually identified as disposal of the site.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to the Answer of 9 June 2026 to Question 5729, if he will publish the Value for Money assessment.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)

While there are no plans to publish the assessments, I can confirm that the Value for Money (VfM) assessments considered all the reprovisions linked to the disposal of the Prince William of Gloucester Barracks (PWoG) and on this basis the VfM position of the multiple programme moves was established.

PWoG Barracks has been identified for disposal when it becomes surplus to Military requirements. At the point any site is declared surplus we are required to ensure best value for the taxpayer, and this is usually identified as disposal of the site.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what estimate he has made of the cost to the public purse of the capital costs of providing Army Reserve basic training capacity at Alexander Barracks, Pirbright following the closure of Prince William of Gloucester Barracks.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)

As referenced in my previous answer of 9 June 2026 to Question 6104, a comprehensive Value for Money assessment has been conducted to inform the current plan. This assessment includes detailed consideration of capital costs, moving costs, running costs, disposal receipts, as well as non-financial benefits and disbenefits. The economic case demonstrates that the disposal of Prince William of Gloucester (PWoG) Barracks represents positive value to the public purse.

While exact capital cost figures remain commercially sensitive, the economic case estimates that providing equivalent training capacity at Alexander Barracks, Pirbright will result in reduced running costs across both infrastructure and personnel, thereby contributing to overall savings.

Precise annual running costs of Grantham are not centralised and could only be provided at disproportionate cost. Regarding the annual running cost of providing the equivalent training capacity of Army Training Regiment Grantham at Alexander Barracks, Pirbright, I refer the honourable member to the answer provided by my hon. Friend, the Minister for Veterans and Personnel, on 4 June 2026 to Question 5714. Until future plans are fully determined, it is not possible to provide precise costing estimates at this time. Furthermore, the department does not routinely release forecast figures.

With respect to an aggregate estimate or range of the total cost of relocating the units and training functions based at Prince William of Gloucester Barracks, as noted in my previous response, such forecast costs are commercially sensitive and therefore cannot be disclosed.

The approved plan represents a financially prudent approach that balances capital investment with ongoing savings, ensuring the continued delivery of high-quality Army Reserve training in a sustainable and cost-effective manner.

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Found: The Comptroller and Auditor General (C&AG), Gareth Davies, is an Officer of the House of Commons and

Found: The Comptroller and Auditor General (C&AG), Gareth Davies, is an Officer of the House of Commons and

Found: The Comptroller and Auditor General (C&AG), Gareth Davies, is an Officer of the House of Commons and

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