Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what steps he is taking to increase defence and security co-operation with the Republic of Ireland.

Levels of co-operation with the Republic of Ireland have developed significantly since the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on Defence and Security Co-operation in 2015. This is underpinned by an action plan which provides a framework to enhance our bilateral defence and security relationship in a number of key areas, including increased training opportunities, cyber defence, maritime and air security, and information-sharing. Opportunities for further bilateral co-operation are reviewed through regular consultations at both the policy and military level.