Oral Answers to Questions

Sarah Pochin Excerpts

Monday 19th October 2026 Commons Chamber

[Wes Streeting]

I thank my hon. Friend for the work that he does in this House, as reflected in his question, to champion the great service that the United States’ personnel give to our collective security. Their presence here in the United Kingdom makes us safer and they are always welcome. The current US force posture at RAF Fairford is what we would expect to see outside of major combat operations. However, given the threat to RAF Fairford—respecting that there is still an ongoing investigation, I will be limited in what I say—we need to take base security seriously, and off-base support for UK and US personnel and those of our allies equally seriously. We have committed half a billion pounds of additional investment, and strengthened security technology and infrastructure across military sites. The challenges that we face here in the UK are challenges that are facing all our allies, and one issue that I discussed with Secretary Hegseth last week was about what more we could do together to strengthen our collective security across the alliance.

[Sarah Pochin (Runcorn and Helsby) (Reform)]

Does the Secretary of State agree that the Territorial Army plays an important role in our national resilience? Will he commit to fight for increased funding for the Territorial Army in the forthcoming Budget, and what is he doing to increase recruitment?

[Wes Streeting]

We certainly support our reservists—they have an important part to play in our national defence. I will take the hon. Member’s question as yet another supportive submission to the Budget process on behalf of the Ministry of Defence. I can say confidently to the House that those Budget representations fall on very sympathetic ears with this Chancellor.