Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, if he will list those capabilities under discussion in the Permanent Structured Cooperation that would be able to generate a standing multinational unit; and if he will make a statement.

The aim of Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO) is to strengthen EU Member States' cooperation in military matters. PESCO is voluntary and works on an opt-in basis.

Member States have suggested more than 40 potential projects for PESCO, none of which propose a standing military unit or pooled assets although a number of projects seek to establish a centre of excellence, logistics hub, or medical command. The UK and other Member States are committed to preventing unnecessary duplication between the EU and NATO, including the establishment of military forces where that need is already met by NATO.