The government accepts this recommendation. The Armed Forces have a well-established role in supporting resilience in the UK. The Ministry of Defence (MoD) is always ready to respond to requests for Military Aid to Civil Authorities (MACA) to support the government’s response to emergencies, if appropriate and as available. MACA is provided in accordance with the principles and published guidance. MoD works closely with the Cabinet Office and lead government departments to understand the risks facing the UK and to provide support for planning and exercising or a range of threats and hazards. In addition, the UK benefits from a network of regional advisors, Joint Regional Liaison Officers (JRLOs), who are embedded across the UK and provide day-to-day liaison between the MoD and civil authorities at the local level. This network proved invaluable in supporting the response to COVID-19 and ensuring that civil authorities could easily access defence support when it was required. The Civil Contingencies Secretariat (CCS) also works closely with the Armed Forces to share best practice and improve operational expertise in emergencies across public bodies. This includes delivering training and exercising opportunities to support knowledge and skills development. The government will continue to work to improve collaboration between the Armed Forces and public bodies to strengthen the UK’s overall resilience.