Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what steps he is taking to ensure the independence of UK armed forces within the European Intervention Initiative.

The European Intervention Initiative does not affect the independence of UK Armed Forces in any way. It is a flexible, non-binding forum, that provides a framework for increased co-operation between participating European states. It is not a standing force.

It aims to improve information sharing, planning and co-ordination of deployments to save time and make sure work is not duplicated when tackling common threats and challenges. The decision on whether to participate in its specific activities rests with us at all times.