National Security Capability Review Debate

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Department: Ministry of Defence

National Security Capability Review

Grahame Morris Excerpts
Monday 15th January 2018

(6 years, 3 months ago)

Commons Chamber
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Gavin Williamson Portrait Gavin Williamson
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I would very much like to reintroduce the Staffordshire Regiment as part of any changes, and that is something I would like to look at going forward—I may have some more battles to win before I get to that stage. However, I take on board my hon. Friend’s comments, and I am very conscious of the important role that the armed forces—especially the Royal Signals—play in Stafford, of how they are so involved in the local community and of how important the money we spend on our armed forces is to the economic prosperity of Stafford and Staffordshire.

Grahame Morris Portrait Grahame Morris (Easington) (Lab)
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The Secretary of State listed areas that would be protected, including aircraft carriers. Could the red line be extended to the amphibious assault ships—the Albion-class ships—and may I respectfully point out that a reduction in our amphibious capability would fundamentally diminish our ability to carry out humanitarian missions?

Gavin Williamson Portrait Gavin Williamson
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We need a broad range of capabilities, and I will certainly take on board the hon. Gentleman’s comments. We must maximise our capability, make sure it is affordable and give our armed forces the right training and equipment for them to do their job right around the globe.