Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what date does he plan to introduce to Parliament the Defence Readiness Bill.

The Government has recently introduced the Armed Forces Bill which addresses a broad range of issues across the Armed Forces, including readiness, such as strengthening the Strategic Reserve and enhancing mobilisation capabilities.

With regard to Defence Readiness legislation, Defence is working to develop measures ensuring readiness in the event of a crisis or war, with the intent for it to be delivered within this Parliament, consulting as required.

The hon. Member will be aware that Governments do not pre-empt the contents of any future King’s Speech.