(Secretary of State for
Defence): I wanted to inform the House of our work
to review the UK’s defence and security industrial sectors, which
will inform the broader Integrated Review of Security, Defence,
Development and Foreign Policy.
The UK has built up a world-leading defence and security
industrial base over many decades with a broad footprint across
the UK, helping our Armed Forces and the broader national
security community to deter or defeat any threat that presents
itself. At the same time, these industries make a significant
contribution to our prosperity through investment, exports,
skills, and research and development. The defence and security
industry employs hundreds of thousands of people - including
thousands of apprentices - across the breadth of the Union, from
building warships in Scotland and armoured vehicles in Wales, to
manufacturing aircraft in England and satellites in Northern
Ireland. Our industries are also at the forefront of technology
development in creating new ways to prevent and defend against
terrorism and serious organised crime. And on the international
stage, UK defence and security companies play a crucial role in
maintaining the UK’s global influence, underpinning our strategic
partnerships with key allies.
Many of the UK’s defence and security companies are flourishing,
but suppliers from large companies to SMEs are also now facing a
range of challenges for the future. They are impacted by the pace
of technological change, the need for innovation and partnership,
and increased competition from abroad, alongside the difficulty
of sustaining necessary skills. We need to consider how to
address these challenges and maximise potential opportunities.
The Integrated Review will define the long-term strategic aims
for our national security and foreign policy and determine the
capabilities and reforms needed to meet those aims. The review of
the UK’s defence and security industrial sectors will support
this work by considering how to ensure the UK continues to have
competitive, innovative and world-class defence and security
industries that drive investment and prosperity across the Union,
that underpin our national security now and in the future.
The Ministry of Defence will lead a cross-government team to
progress this work, engaging closely with industry, Parliament,
and other stakeholders over the course of the review. The House
will be kept informed as work progresses.
