Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment his Department has made of the adequacy of the UK's military readiness.

The Ministry of Defence regularly assesses the adequacy of the UK's military readiness. The results of this robust process are reported to senior military officers and Ministers. In addition, routine wargaming tests our force structures and assumptions and this is supplemented by events to test specific capabilities and scenarios. These activities support the maintenance of readiness in response to evolving threats. Although Defence is facing unprecedented challenges, for example with the crisis in Ukraine, our Armed Forces are rising to the challenge and supporting like-minded allies and partners around the world. Despite the funding shortfall the Defence Secretary has been clear in setting out, the Armed Forces remain ready to defend the nation should they be called upon to do so.