Every parliamentary written question tabled by James Cartlidge this session, with the full answer and department. See how every department answers, or back to the MP page.
Showing 1,901–1,920 of 3,253 · Ministry of Defence
What information his Department holds on the number of UK companies that have applied to join the AUKUS Authorised User Community exemption from the US International Traffic in Arms regulations.
So far, 269 entities have applied to join the AUKUS Authorised User Community exemption from the US International Traffic in Arms regulations.
What the average processing time is for UK applications for companies to join the Authorised User Community exemption from the U.S. International Traffic in Arms regulations.
The Ministry of Defence has only recently fully established the new Authorised User Community (AUC) joining process. Application timelines were not monitored while the process was being established. Data will be gathered over the next few months to provide indicative processing timelines. It is also worth noting that once the UK process has been completed, the US must then complete its own checks on the applicants prior to those entities being approved for membership of the AUC.
What assessment he has made of the potential impact of General Data Protection Regulations on the training of armed forces personnel to use uncrewed systems.
The Department has policies and procedures in place to ensure that all its processes are compliant under Data Protection legislation and Ministry of Defence personnel are mandated to complete data protection training on an annual basis. This was most recently reviewed and updated in 2024. There have been no specific reports of GDPR restrictions affecting activities. Training regularly features drones as part of exercises. We are constantly experimenting with and embracing innovative technology, including in drone warfare.
Whether his Department plans to take steps to increase the uptake of UK companies applying to join the AUKUS Authorised User Community.
The Ministry of Defence (MOD) is always seeking opportunities to encourage membership of the Authorised User Community (AUC) and has actively engaged in a wide range of outreach activities with industry. These outreach activities have included participating in webinars and in person workshops through the trade association ADS Group and related trade associations in the US and Australia, to increase awareness, as well as attending various export control events. These activities have been undertaken by the UK both individually and in collaboration with Australian and US counterparts, with multiple in person tri-partite briefings being held in each of the three countries. The most recent event supported by the MOD was a Webinar arranged by ADS Group entitled 'Update and Discussions on the Authorised User Community under AUKUS' at which over 250 companies registered to attend. The MOD will also be attending major trade shows such as DSEi, where this year there is an AUKUS pavilion.
How many UK companies have been approved to join the AUKUS Authorised User Community exemption from the U.S. International Traffic in Arms regulations.
98 entities have been approved with 171 entities currently going through the approval process.
Pursuant to the Answer of 9 April 2025 to Question 43148 on Ministry of Defence: Written Questions, whether his Department has used artificial intelligence to support (a) routine operations and (b) policy work for operational matters.
The provision of support to routine operations by artificial intelligence (AI) is ambitious, safe and responsible, in line with the Dependable AI Joint Service Publication 936. All capabilities, whether AI-enabled or not, are developed and used in line with existing rigorous processes to ensure safety, effectiveness and lawfulness. Adherence to the rule of law is central to the Ministry of Defence’s approach to and its conduct of military operations. Any operation supported by AI is subject to the same applicable laws. Military commanders remain responsible for their decisions at all times, including where these are enabled by AI.
Pursuant to the Answer of 9 April to Question 43148 on Ministry of Defence: Written Questions, whether artificial intelligence has been used to support (a) routine operations and (b) policy in relation to nuclear capability.
The delivery of defence capabilities enabled by artificial intelligence (AI) will be ambitious, safe and responsible. Research to identify, understand, and mitigate against risks of applying AI for sensitive defence affairs is underway. Routine nuclear deterrence operations continue to be conducted in accordance with the highest standards and controls. Regardless of any potential application of artificial intelligence in our strategic systems, we will ensure human political control of our nuclear weapons is maintained at all times. I hope that the hon. Gentleman will understand that I will not comment further on the details as to do so would prejudice the capability, security and effectiveness of the Armed Forces.
Whether UK sovereign capability will be considered in the procurement of a replacement for the SA80 rifle.
Project GRAYBURN aims to replace the L85 family of rifles with a new weapon system fit for future warfare. This will be achieved in partnership with industry by growing UK sovereign manufacturing skills and infrastructure. The Ministry of Defence is committed to investing in our nation’s prosperity and supporting and developing our competitive industrial base through provision of education, skills and jobs. The Defence Industrial Strategy will articulate how best Defence can contribute to sovereign operational independence, including in the production of small arms.
What recent progress he has made on implementing Project Grayburn.
I refer the hon. Members to the answer I gave on 28 April 2025 to Question 45196. In alignment with the Land Industrial Strategy, recent analysis focussed on job creation in the UK manufacturing sector, project costs and the procurement thresholds necessary to encourage private investment from industry. I am withholding further detail relating to the conducted analysis due to reasons of commercial sensitivity.
How many US companies have been approved by the US Government to join the AUKUS Authorised User Community.
The Ministry of Defence does not have access to information on how many US companies are members of the US Authorised User Community (AUC). US companies are deemed to be members of the US AUC if they have registered with the Directorate of Defence Trade Controls (DDTC), the body responsible for overseeing the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). DDTC does not provide this information to either the UK or Australia but, as a guide, any US company which has exported military end use items out of the US will be registered with DDTC. The numbers could therefore be in the thousands.
With reference to the Written Statement of 6 May 2025 on Veterans Support, HCWS619, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of this announcement on Op COURAGE.
VALOUR is a new commitment to establish the first-ever UK-wide approach to veteran support. A new VALOUR HQ within the Ministry of Defence, a network of field officers, regional VALOUR-recognised support centres, and development funding to support local delivery will be established, overseen by the Office for Veterans’ Affairs. VALOUR will foster the enterprising spirit of veteran charities, better connect local and national services and ensure veterans’ support is data driven. VALOUR will ensure that services such as Op COURAGE are connected with others so that veterans receive the support they require.
With reference to the Written Statement of 6 May 2025 on Veterans Support, HCWS619, what the regional breakdown will be of Regional Field Officers.
VALOUR is a new commitment to establish the first-ever UK-wide approach to veteran support. A new VALOUR HQ within the Ministry of Defence, a network of field officers, regional VALOUR-recognised support centres, and development funding to support local delivery will be established, overseen by the Office for Veterans’ Affairs. VALOUR will foster the enterprising spirit of veteran charities, better connect local and national services and ensure veterans’ support is data driven. With new funding for veterans from the Ministry of Defence budget, the detailed structures and processes that will underpin VALOUR will be designed in collaboration with relevant partners and further details will be announced in due course.
With reference to the Written Statement of 6 May 2025 on Veterans Support, HCWS619, what impact will VALOUR have on Veterans’ Advisory and Pensions Committees.
VALOUR is a new commitment to establish the first-ever UK-wide approach to veteran support. A new VALOUR HQ within the Ministry of Defence, a network of field officers, regional VALOUR-recognised support centres, and development funding to support local delivery will be established, overseen by the Office for Veterans’ Affairs. VALOUR will foster the enterprising spirit of veteran charities, better connect local and national services and ensure veterans’ support is data driven. With new funding for veterans from the Ministry of Defence budget, the detailed structures and processes that will underpin VALOUR will be designed in collaboration with relevant partners and further details will be announced in due course.
With reference to the Written Statement of 6 May 2025 on Veterans Support: A New Approach, HCWS619, if the regional field officers will be (a) service personnel, (b) veterans, (c) civil servants and (d) recruited from elsewhere.
VALOUR is a new commitment to establish the first-ever UK-wide approach to veteran support. A new VALOUR HQ within the Ministry of Defence, a network of field officers, regional VALOUR-recognised support centres, and development funding to support local delivery will be established, overseen by the Office for Veterans’ Affairs. VALOUR will foster the enterprising spirit of veteran charities, better connect local and national services and ensure veterans’ support is data driven. With new funding for veterans from the Ministry of Defence budget, the detailed structures and processes that will underpin VALOUR will be designed in collaboration with relevant partners and further details will be announced in due course.
With reference to the Written Statement of 6 May 2025 on Veterans Support, HCWS619, whether VALOUR services will offer legal advice for veterans subject to judicial proceedings arising from service on Operation Banner.
As a part of our ongoing commitment to veterans involved in Northern Ireland legal processes, the Ministry of Defence provides welfare support and where appropriate, legal support, at public expense.
With reference to the Written Statement of 6 May 2025, HCWS619, on Veterans Support, what the administrative cost is for implementing VALOUR.
VALOUR is a new commitment to establish the first-ever UK-wide approach to veteran support. A new VALOUR HQ within the Ministry of Defence, a network of field officers, regional VALOUR-recognised support centres, and development funding to support local delivery will be established, overseen by the Office for Veterans’ Affairs. VALOUR will foster the enterprising spirit of veteran charities, better connect local and national services and ensure veterans’ support is data driven. With new funding for veterans from the Ministry of Defence budget, the detailed structures and processes that will underpin VALOUR will be designed in collaboration with relevant partners and further details will be announced in due course.
With reference to the Written Statement of 6 May 2025 on Veterans Support: A New Approach, HCWS619, whether the £50 million funding is in addition to the previously announced funding for defence made by the Prime Minister in his Oral Statement of 25 February 2025 on Defence and Security, Official Report, columns 631-634.
VALOUR is a new commitment to establish the first-ever UK-wide approach to veteran support. A new VALOUR HQ within the Ministry of Defence, a network of field officers, regional VALOUR-recognised support centres, and development funding to support local delivery will be established, overseen by the Office for Veterans’ Affairs. VALOUR will foster the enterprising spirit of veteran charities, better connect local and national services and ensure veterans’ support is data driven. With new funding for veterans from the Ministry of Defence budget, the detailed structures and processes that will underpin VALOUR will be designed in collaboration with relevant partners and further details will be announced in due course.
With reference to the Written Statement of 6 May 2025, HCWS619, on Veterans Support, whether VALOUR will be administered by the Office for Veterans Affairs.
VALOUR is a new commitment to establish the first-ever UK-wide approach to veteran support. A new VALOUR HQ within the Ministry of Defence, a network of field officers, regional VALOUR-recognised support centres, and development funding to support local delivery will be established, overseen by the Office for Veterans’ Affairs. VALOUR will foster the enterprising spirit of veteran charities, better connect local and national services and ensure veterans’ support is data driven. With new funding for veterans from the Ministry of Defence budget, the detailed structures and processes that will underpin VALOUR will be designed in collaboration with relevant partners and further details will be announced in due course.
When he plans to publish his Department's next Equipment Plan.
The Government is committed to sharing more detail of the Ministry of Defence's future investment choices following the Strategic Defence Review. The format this takes is being assessed in light of both Defence Reform and the upcoming Strategic Defence Review publication. As the Permanent Secretary set out in his letter of 12 March 2025to the Chairs of the Public Accounts Committee and Defence Select Committee, one of the options under consideration is reporting on defence investment more widely, rather than continue with the Equipment Plan in its previous format.
Pursuant to the Answer of 29 April to Question 47759 on Ukraine: Puma Helicopters, whether his Department has received any requests for rotary capability from the Ukrainian Government.
I refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave on 29 April 2025 to Question 47759. We continue to liaise closely with Ukraine to deliver the capabilities they require to resist Russian aggression. This includes all relevant capabilities on Land, Sea and in the Air.