Oral Answers to Questions

Kevin Bonavia Excerpts

Wednesday 11th February 2026 Commons Chamber

[Alice Macdonald (Norwich North) (Lab/Co-op)]

3. What assessment he has made of the potential impact of the defence industrial strategy 2025 on Northern Ireland.

[Kevin Bonavia (Stevenage) (Lab)]

9. What assessment he has made of the potential impact of the defence industrial strategy 2025 on Northern Ireland.

[John Slinger (Rugby) (Lab)]

12. What assessment he has made of the potential impact of the defence industrial strategy 2025 on Northern Ireland.

--- Later in debate ---

[Matthew Patrick]

I am happy to join my hon. Friend in doing that. Just last week I visited Mallaghan, where four apprentices were being given incredible opportunities as a result of taking up their jobs, and I am sure they would agree with my hon. Friend’s assessment.

[Kevin Bonavia]

My hon. Friend will be aware that the defence industry sector is well established in my constituency, where it is building links with its counterparts in Northern Ireland. Does the Minister agree that the defence industrial strategy presents a huge opportunity for businesses in constituencies throughout the country, including Stevenage and most certainly Northern Ireland, where it can help to boost investment, job creation and economic growth?

[Matthew Patrick]

My hon. Friend is right. The strategy is not just about the defence of the realm; there are economic opportunities that come with it. The defence growth deal on which we are working in Northern Ireland will take advantage of that, and will ensure that small businesses in particular can benefit.