Oral Answers to Questions Debate

Full Debate: Read Full Debate
Department: Ministry of Defence

Oral Answers to Questions

Sarah Smith Excerpts
Monday 2nd February 2026

(1 day, 13 hours ago)

Commons Chamber
Read Full debate Read Hansard Text Read Debate Ministerial Extracts
Sarah Smith Portrait Sarah Smith (Hyndburn) (Lab)
- Hansard - -

15. What steps he is taking to support armed forces families.

Louise Sandher-Jones Portrait The Minister for Veterans and People (Louise Sandher-Jones)
- Hansard - - - Excerpts

Armed forces families play a vital part in supporting members of our armed forces and helping them to perform their role of defending our national security. Our ambition is for our Valour hubs to support not only veterans but members of our wider armed forces communities, including families.

Sarah Smith Portrait Sarah Smith
- Hansard - -

Another important factor in support for our brave troops is the provision of military clothing. The previous Conservative Government tied us into a contract whereby about 90% of Army clothing is secured through overseas suppliers, and a significant amount is secured from China. In my constituency of Hyndburn, the home of textiles, many businesses are eager to meet the needs of our British troops. Will the Minister review this and look into whether British companies can meet those British needs?