Defence in Scotland

Scottish Affairs Committee Closed Inquiry
Opened: 30 Jul 2021 Closed: 17 Jan 2024 Parliament page
Inquiry series The Committee has launched an inquiry series into Defence in Scotland. This began with an inquiry into the military personnel and military estate landscape in Scotland, and continues with ongoing inquiries into military shipbuilding in Scotland and Defence in the North Atlantic and the High North. The North … Read more
43 Recommendations
101 Conclusions
3 Reports
13 Oral sessions
2 Letters
20 Events
Activity timeline 41 events
18 Oct
2023
Report published
21 Jul
2023
Report published
10 Jul
2023
Formal meeting (private meeting) · Room 5, Palace of Westminster
5 Jun
2023
Oral evidence
5 Jun
2023
Formal meeting (oral evidence session) · The Wilson Room, Portcullis House
24 Apr
2023
Oral evidence
24 Apr
2023
Formal meeting (oral evidence session) · Room 16, Palace of Westminster
6 Apr
2023
Report published
6 Apr
2023
Correspondence
27 Mar
2023
Oral evidence
27 Mar
2023
Formal meeting (oral evidence session) · Room 5, Palace of Westminster
6 Mar
2023
Oral evidence
Oral evidence sessions 13 sessions
5 Jun 2023
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Brigadier Chris Ordway · Ministry of Defence Clare Cameron · Ministry of Defence Rt Hon James Heappey · Ministry of Defence
24 Apr 2023
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Dr Adam Bower · University of St Andrews Professor Iain Woodhouse · University of Edinburgh Professor Jacques Hartmann · University of Dundee
27 Mar 2023
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His Excellency Sturla Sigurjónsson · Icelandic Embassy His Excellency Wegger Christian Strømmen · Norwegian Embassy
6 Mar 2023
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Dr Duncan Depledge · Loughborough University Dr Marc DeVore · University of St Andrews Dr Rowan Allport · Human Security Centre
6 Dec 2022
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Rear Admiral Rex Cox · Ministry of Defence Rt Hon Ben Wallace · Ministry of Defence Vice Admiral Paul Marshall CBE · Ministry of Defence
14 Nov 2022
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Hans Pung · RAND Europe Professor Keith Hartley · University of York
5 Sep 2022
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Ben Carpenter Merritt · Babcock Gordon McGuinness · Skills Development Scotland Ivan McKee MSP · Scottish Government John Howie MBE · Babcock International Rory McGregor · Scottish Government Scott McClelland · Scottish Government Sir Simon Lister · BAE Systems Naval Ships
12 Jul 2022
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Ben Carpenter Merritt · Babcock Ivan McKee MSP · Scottish Government John Howie MBE · Babcock International Oliver Waghorn · BAE Systems Sir Simon Lister · BAE Systems Naval Ships
13 Jun 2022
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Ian Waddell · The Confederation of Shipbuilding and Engineering Unions (CSEU) Kevin Craven · ADS Group - Aerospace, Defence, Security & Space Richard Powell OBE · Society of Maritime Industries (SMI)
21 Mar 2022
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Damian Parmenter · Ministry of Defence David Brewer · Defence Infrastructure Organisation Sherin Aminossehe · Ministry of Defence The Baroness Goldie DL · Ministry of Defence
7 Mar 2022
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Councillor Rod Cavanagh · Fife Council Fergus Murray · Argyll and Bute Council Keith Brown MSP · Scottish Government Kevin McGowan · Scottish Government Provost Peter Smaill · Midlothian Council Rhona Gunn · Moray Council Rory McGregor · Scottish Government
21 Feb 2022
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Dr Hina Khan · Spire Global Limited Dr Suzanne Costello · MCS Limited Jamie Mincher · Glenalmond Group John Howie MBE · Babcock Kevin Craven · ADS Group - Aerospace, Defence, Security & Space Oliver Waghorn · BAE Systems Stephen McCann · Thales
31 Jan 2022
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Collette Musgrave · Army Families Federation Lieutenant General (retd) Sir Andrew Gregory KBE CB DL · SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity Maria Lyle · RAF Families Federation Professor Phillips O'Brien · University of St Andrews Professor Trevor Taylor · Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) Sarah Clewes · Naval Families Federation
Recommendations & Conclusions
60 results
Clear
4 Conclusion Accepted
First Report - Defence in Scotland…
We welcome the MOD’s high level of spending with Scottish industry (around 10% of total...
We welcome the MOD’s high level of spending with Scottish industry (around 10% of total spending with industry) but are concerned that this spending is very heavily skewed towards major international prime contractors rather than SMEs. This is illustrated by … Read more
Government Response
The MOD recognises the skills offered by Scottish SMEs but rejects the view that there is an engrained hesitancy within the defence sector towards working with them, and outlines various initiatives to support SMEs.
Scotland Office
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10 Recommendation Accepted
First Report - Defence in Scotland…
The MOD should intensify its collaboration efforts with all Scottish local authorities facing base closures...
The MOD should intensify its collaboration efforts with all Scottish local authorities facing base closures or base expansions, and engage with them at earlier stages in those processes. The MOD should also work with Scottish local authorities to jointly produce, … Read more
Government Response
The MOD will continue to work with local authorities to determine the impact of basing decisions on communities and how we release surplus military sites for meaningful future use. MOD already employs dedicated locally based estate leads for all of our sites in Scotland to facilitate regular engagement with local councils.
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15 Recommendation Accepted
First Report - Defence in Scotland…
While improvements have been made in this area—for example the Scottish Government’s ‘Welcome to Scotland’...
While improvements have been made in this area—for example the Scottish Government’s ‘Welcome to Scotland’ guide—there is scope for the MOD to be more proactive in the information it routinely shares with Armed Forces personnel and their families when they … Read more
Government Response
The MOD commits to working with the Scottish Government and Service Families Federations to refresh the ‘Welcome to Scotland’ publication annually and signpost it to personnel.
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17 Recommendation Accepted
First Report - Defence in Scotland…
The UK Government should accelerate work with relevant responsible bodies across the UK to reduce...
The UK Government should accelerate work with relevant responsible bodies across the UK to reduce barriers that military spouses and partners face when attempting to transfer their professional qualifications—for example, teaching qualifications— between UK nations. In line with the Armed … Read more
Government Response
The government states that the Scottish Credits and Qualifications Framework Partnership (SCQFP), the Training, Education, Skills, Recruitment and Resettlement team (TESRR) of MOD and Skills Development Scotland, have collaborated to simplify the current system for mapping and translating qualifications and that spouses may use the online tool to translate their qualifications.
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2 Conclusion Accepted
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
If bids from Scottish yards are to be fairly compared with those of their international...
If bids from Scottish yards are to be fairly compared with those of their international competitors, this process should be based on a full analysis of their respective benefits, including the benefits to the local economy and in additional tax … Read more
Government Response
The Government seeks to account for the wider benefits from shipbuilding procurement programmes through the application of the Social Value model and regional assessments. The NSO also works with MOD procurement teams to ensure economic benefits are considered.
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3 Recommendation Accepted
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
In its response to this report, the UK Government should set out what work it...
In its response to this report, the UK Government should set out what work it did, in preparing the National Shipbuilding Strategy Refresh, to estimate and measure the benefits of procuring ships domestically for the Scottish economy and the wider … Read more
Government Response
The Government stated they seek to account for the wider benefits from shipbuilding procurement programmes through the application of the Social Value model. The National Shipbuilding Office (NSO) and the MOD have undertaken a series of regional assessments to better understand the economic footprint of the UK shipbuilding industry.
Scotland Office
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4 Conclusion Accepted
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
The decision to award the Fleet Solid Support (FSS) ships to the international consortium Team...
The decision to award the Fleet Solid Support (FSS) ships to the international consortium Team Resolute is an example of a shift in the UK Government’s approach to warship procurement. We note that the UK Government chose the Team Resolute … Read more
Government Response
The MOD states that the decision to award the Fleet Solid Support ship contract to Team Resolute did not prioritise short-term savings and that the decision was the result of a fair and open competition, supporting the objectives of the National Shipbuilding Strategy.
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11 Recommendation Accepted
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
The UK Government should carry out and lay before Parliament a formal evaluation of the...
The UK Government should carry out and lay before Parliament a formal evaluation of the contribution of the National Shipbuilding Office after two years, and again after five and ten years, to assess whether it has succeeded in driving better … Read more
Government Response
The NSO is gathering the required data to monitor and assure the delivery of the Refresh and is suitably empowered to provide strategic oversight of all Government activity across the shipbuilding enterprise and is committed to demonstrating accountability and value publicly where possible.
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13 Recommendation Accepted
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
To enhance its relationships with the Scottish shipbuilding sector, the National Shipbuilding Office should, by...
To enhance its relationships with the Scottish shipbuilding sector, the National Shipbuilding Office should, by the end of 2023, establish a permanent staff presence in its Edinburgh hub, as the MoD and NSO have indicated. (Paragraph 40) The shipbuilding pipeline Read more
Government Response
The Department stated that they have already signed a lease for a base in Queen Elizabeth House in Edinburgh, which will be used by the NSO to host its staff and support visits. The NSO is advertising jobs based in Edinburgh.
Scotland Office
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22 Conclusion Accepted
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
We note that the MOD did not agree with the concerns expressed by Scottish SMEs...
We note that the MOD did not agree with the concerns expressed by Scottish SMEs during our Defence in Scotland: military landscape inquiry about the difficulties they experienced engaging with the Ministry. The steps the UK Government outlined in its … Read more
Government Response
The MOD published the SME Action Plan in 2022 which outlines the commitments being made to increasing and supporting opportunities for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). The Department for Transport is the lead Government Department for the Regional Maritime Cluster Development Programme.
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23 Recommendation Accepted
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
The Ministry of Defence should, in line with its commitments in the National Shipbuilding Strategy...
The Ministry of Defence should, in line with its commitments in the National Shipbuilding Strategy and the UK Government’s commitments in Maritime 2050, work specifically to develop shipbuilding clusters in Scotland. In responding to this report, the UK Government should … Read more
Government Response
The MOD referenced its SME Action Plan and engagement with the Scottish Supplier Development Programme as actions already in place to support shipbuilding clusters and address barriers to Scottish SMEs.
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24 Recommendation Accepted
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
The Ministry of Defence should report back to us at the end of the financial...
The Ministry of Defence should report back to us at the end of the financial year to confirm whether it met its target of spending 25 per cent of its procurement spend with SMEs. In addition, it should provide an … Read more
Government Response
The MOD stated that they had a target of 25% SME procurement spend by the end of 2022, with Scottish SMEs playing a significant role, and that figures are being gathered and will be published. They also stated that regional statistics for FY21/22 have been published and confirm £67M went directly to Scottish SMEs, representing 7% of direct SME spend.
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25 Conclusion Accepted
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
We heard that including a social value component in shipbuilding contracts can help deliver benefits...
We heard that including a social value component in shipbuilding contracts can help deliver benefits for the wider economy and in shipbuilding communities. However, there are challenges in measuring how effectively those commitments are being delivered on. Read more
Government Response
The NSO and the MOD are committed to ensuring that social value commitments through Government shipbuilding procurements and investments are delivered. Under the Cabinet Office Social Value Model, the contracting authority is also mandated to assess the supplier’s performance.
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26 Recommendation Accepted
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
The MOD should set out how it evaluates social value in competitions, how it measures...
The MOD should set out how it evaluates social value in competitions, how it measures the delivery of social value in the contracts it negotiates, and how it holds contractors accountable to ensure they meet those targets. It should also, … Read more
Government Response
The MOD uses the Cabinet Office Social Value Model, measures delivery through standard reporting metrics, contract-specific metrics, and a Social Value Key Performance Indicator, and manages performance through reporting obligations, performance management terms, and a formal framework for managing relationships with its largest suppliers.
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30 Recommendation Accepted
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
Building on the work of the UK Shipbuilding Skills Taskforce, the Ministry of Defence should...
Building on the work of the UK Shipbuilding Skills Taskforce, the Ministry of Defence should commission regular research to develop and keep up to date its understanding of the current and future skills profile of the shipbuilding workforce, and the … Read more
Government Response
The government states that the UK Shipbuilding Skills Taskforce (UKSST) is already addressing this challenge and includes representatives from Skills Development Scotland and Scottish industry.
Scotland Office
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38 Recommendation Accepted
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
The UK Government should carry out and lay before Parliament a formal evaluation of the...
The UK Government should carry out and lay before Parliament a formal evaluation of the contribution of the National Shipbuilding Office after two years, and again after five and ten years, to assess whether it has succeeded in driving better … Read more
Government Response
The government states that the NSO is gathering the required data to monitor and assure the delivery of the Refresh, and reports to the Secretary of State for Defence who has the ability to hold other Ministers to account. They believe the NSO is suitably empowered to provide strategic oversight and is committed to demonstrating accountability and value publicly, including the publication of the NSO Corporate Plan (2022–25).
Scotland Office
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40 Recommendation Accepted
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
To enhance its relationships with the Scottish shipbuilding sector, the National Shipbuilding Office should, by...
To enhance its relationships with the Scottish shipbuilding sector, the National Shipbuilding Office should, by the end of 2023, establish a permanent staff presence in its Edinburgh hub, as the MOD and NSO have indicated. Defence in Scotland: military shipbuilding … Read more
Government Response
The NSO has signed a lease for a base in Queen Elizabeth House in Edinburgh to host its staff and support engagement. The NSO advertises all its job vacancies to be based from either its Edinburgh or London offices.
Scotland Office
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41 Conclusion Accepted
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
A theme we heard repeatedly emphasised during our inquiry was the importance of a regular...
A theme we heard repeatedly emphasised during our inquiry was the importance of a regular ‘drumbeat’ of orders to provide a consistent workload that could help industry plan for the future. Stakeholders from all parts of the sector stressed that … Read more
Government Response
The MOD recognizes the importance of maintaining a regular drumbeat of orders across the Shipbuilding industry and the NSbS aims to provide a more sustainable demand signal from Government through a 30-year cross-Government Shipbuilding Pipeline. The NSO has committed to updating the shipbuilding pipeline at each multi-year Spending Review.
Scotland Office
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46 Conclusion Accepted
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
Other elements of the pipeline face questions, including the Type 32 frigates, which under the...
Other elements of the pipeline face questions, including the Type 32 frigates, which under the pipeline suggested above would be built by Babcock at Rosyth from 2028 into the late 2030s. A National Audit Office report in November noted that, … Read more
Government Response
The MOD recognizes the importance of maintaining a regular drumbeat of orders across the Shipbuilding industry and the NSbS aims to provide a more sustainable demand signal from Government through a 30-year cross-Government Shipbuilding Pipeline. The NSO has committed to updating the shipbuilding pipeline at each multi-year Spending Review. The Type 32 Frigate programme remains a key part of the future fleet and will be UK-built, but the procurement route has yet to be determined.
Scotland Office
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54 Recommendation Accepted
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
In its response to this report, and in its annual shipbuilding update to the Defence...
In its response to this report, and in its annual shipbuilding update to the Defence Select Committee, the UK Government should provide an update on the current status of the military shipbuilding pipeline for Scottish naval yards. In particular, it … Read more
Government Response
The government confirms the Royal Navy intends to procure more frigates and destroyers, states the T32 program is in the concept phase, and the suspension of the National Flagship has not created a gap in the pipeline as the MROS ships are being brought forward.
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65 Conclusion Accepted
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
The UK defence sector, and the shipbuilding industry in particular, is dominated by a relatively...
The UK defence sector, and the shipbuilding industry in particular, is dominated by a relatively small number of major companies. This is partly as a result of significant rationalisation and consolidation over the years, the highly specialised nature of its … Read more
Government Response
The MOD published the SME Action Plan in 2022, outlining commitments to increasing opportunities for SMEs and supporting the defence supply chain through initiatives such as the Defence Suppliers Portal and digital outreach.
Scotland Office
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66 Conclusion Accepted
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
Only a small proportion of MOD spending with SMEs goes to Scottish SMEs, however.
Only a small proportion of MOD spending with SMEs goes to Scottish SMEs, however. During our previous defence inquiry into Scotland’s military landscape, the MOD told us that Scottish SMEs accounted for just over £25 million of the MOD’s total … Read more
Government Response
The MOD had a target of 25% of procurement spend going to SMEs by the end of 2022 and expects Scottish SMEs played a significant role in this. Figures for FY21/22 show £67M went directly to Scottish SMEs, representing 7% of total direct SME spend.
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68 Conclusion Accepted
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
We heard that geographically targeted measures could be an effective way of involving SMEs in...
We heard that geographically targeted measures could be an effective way of involving SMEs in defence supply chains, such as fostering the growth of industry clusters. Hans Pung of RAND Europe, when asked what the UK Government could do to … Read more
Government Response
The MOD outlines the SME Action Plan and initiatives to support SMEs, including the Defence Suppliers Portal, SME champions, and digital outreach. They also note the Department for Transport is the lead for the Regional Maritime Cluster Development Programme.
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69 Conclusion Accepted
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
We note that the MOD did not agree with the concerns expressed by Scottish SMEs...
We note that the MOD did not agree with the concerns expressed by Scottish SMEs during our Defence in Scotland: military landscape inquiry about the difficulties they experienced engaging with the Ministry. The steps the UK Government outlined in its … Read more
Government Response
The MOD published the SME Action Plan in 2022 which outlines the commitments being made to increasing and supporting opportunities for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), including easier procurement models, recognition of the role of the MOD and its suppliers in supporting the supply chain, and support for innovation and exports. The MOD also supports the Defence Suppliers Portal and digital outreach, and aims to achieve 25% of Defence spend with SMEs this year. The Department for Transport is the lead for the Regional Maritime Cluster Development Programme.
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72 Conclusion Accepted
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
Another tool the MOD uses to attempt to deliver benefits for local economies and communities...
Another tool the MOD uses to attempt to deliver benefits for local economies and communities is through using social value criteria to evaluate contracts. The MOD has a minimum 20 per cent weighting for social value. which will be applied … Read more
Government Response
The NSO and the MOD are committed to ensuring that social value commitments through Government shipbuilding procurements and investments are delivered. Under the Cabinet Office Social Value Model, the contracting authority is also mandated to assess the supplier’s performance.
Scotland Office
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74 Conclusion Accepted
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
We heard that including a social value component in shipbuilding contracts can help deliver benefits...
We heard that including a social value component in shipbuilding contracts can help deliver benefits for the wider economy and in shipbuilding communities. However, there are challenges in measuring how effectively those commitments are being delivered on. Read more
Government Response
The NSO and the MOD are committed to ensuring that social value commitments through Government shipbuilding procurements and investments are delivered. Under the Cabinet Office Social Value Model, the contracting authority is also mandated to assess the supplier’s performance.
Scotland Office
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75 Recommendation Accepted
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
The MOD should set out how it evaluates social value in competitions, how it measures...
The MOD should set out how it evaluates social value in competitions, how it measures the delivery of social value in the contracts it negotiates, and how it holds contractors accountable to ensure they meet those targets. It should also, … Read more
Government Response
The MOD uses the Cabinet Office Social Value Model as the framework, measures social value delivery using standard metrics, contract-specific metrics, and a Social Value Key Performance Indicator, and manages performance like any other contractual obligation with appropriate reporting and performance management terms.
Scotland Office
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76 Conclusion Accepted
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
Professor Keith Hartley of the University of York told us that there was a limited...
Professor Keith Hartley of the University of York told us that there was a limited understanding of shipbuilding supply chains: The problem we face in the Scottish shipbuilding industry is that, although we know the major primes like BAE and … Read more
Government Response
The MOD operates initiatives to improve understanding of supply chains, including the Supply Chain Resilience Programme and a new Defence Condition (DEFCON) requiring contractors to provide supply chain maps.
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77 Conclusion Accepted
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
The Defence Secretary acknowledged that the MOD’s understanding of supply chains had been “one of...
The Defence Secretary acknowledged that the MOD’s understanding of supply chains had been “one of our vulnerabilities” in the past, but said that since then “there has been a real drive across Government, and certainly in our department, to map … Read more
Government Response
The MOD operates a series of initiatives to improve understanding of supply chains and address vulnerabilities, including a Supply Chain Resilience Programme and the introduction of a new Defence Condition (DEFCON) in contracts to map supply chains.
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78 Conclusion Accepted
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
We heard that historically the Ministry of Defence’s understanding of shipbuilding supply chains had been...
We heard that historically the Ministry of Defence’s understanding of shipbuilding supply chains had been a vulnerability. The Secretary of State told us this had subsequently improved. The new Defence Supply Chain Strategy’s emphasis on building resilience in supply chains … Read more
Government Response
The MOD states that it already operates several initiatives to improve the understanding of supply chains, including a Supply Chain Resilience Programme and a new Defence Condition (DEFCON) in contracts.
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79 Recommendation Accepted
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
The Ministry of Defence should publish data on the composition of shipbuilding supply chains, to...
The Ministry of Defence should publish data on the composition of shipbuilding supply chains, to assist understanding of how the UK shipbuilding industry is structured. This should include regional breakdowns so that the extent of local supply chains and industry … Read more
Government Response
The MOD states it already has initiatives to improve understanding of supply chains, including a Supply Chain Resilience Programme and a new Defence Condition (DEFCON) requiring supply chain maps.
Scotland Office
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80 Conclusion Accepted
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
A number of contributors to our inquiry highlighted that shipbuilding is an industry that requires...
A number of contributors to our inquiry highlighted that shipbuilding is an industry that requires a highly trained and specialised workforce.127 This is particularly true in the warship industry because warships are built to more demanding specifications: they must be … Read more
Government Response
The UK Shipbuilding Skills Taskforce (UKSST) seeks to address this challenge by collaborating across Government, the Devolved Administrations, industry and training providers to develop and implement a future-focussed skills strategy, with a report of recommended actions expected in autumn 2023.
Scotland Office
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81 Conclusion Accepted
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
As well as employing large numbers of skilled workers in its shipyards, Scotland also trains...
As well as employing large numbers of skilled workers in its shipyards, Scotland also trains highly specialised workers at its higher and further education institutions, many of which go on to work for BAE and Babcock. Among the institutions which … Read more
Government Response
The UK Shipbuilding Skills Taskforce (UKSST) seeks to address this challenge by collaborating across Government, the Devolved Administrations, industry and training providers to develop and implement a future-focussed skills strategy, with a report of recommended actions expected in autumn 2023.
Scotland Office
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82 Conclusion Accepted
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
The Confederation of Shipbuilding and Engineering Unions said workforce recruitment, skills and retention were “the...
The Confederation of Shipbuilding and Engineering Unions said workforce recruitment, skills and retention were “the biggest challenge for the industry and the enterprise collectively.”129 City of Glasgow College, one of the biggest trainers of Scottish shipbuilders, agreed that “Scottish shipbuilding … Read more
Government Response
The UK Shipbuilding Skills Taskforce (UKSST) is collaborating across Government, the Devolved Administrations, industry and training providers to develop and implement a future-focussed skills strategy and intends to publish a report of recommended actions in autumn 2023.
Scotland Office
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83 Conclusion Accepted
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
A further challenge relates to retaining existing staff.
A further challenge relates to retaining existing staff. Witnesses told us that uncertainty about future workloads could lead to staff leaving their roles. John Howie of Babcock said: “There are inherent inefficiencies in ordering a batch of ships and then … Read more
Government Response
The UK Shipbuilding Skills Taskforce (UKSST) seeks to address the challenge of retaining existing staff by developing and implementing a future-focussed skills strategy. The UKSST includes representatives from Skills Development Scotland and Scottish industry and intends to publish a report of recommended actions in autumn 2023.
Scotland Office
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84 Conclusion Accepted
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
Witnesses emphasised the importance of a reliable drumbeat of work to help them recruit and...
Witnesses emphasised the importance of a reliable drumbeat of work to help them recruit and retain staff. City of Glasgow College called for “a clearer demand signal to trigger both the public and private sector investment needed to expand the … Read more
Government Response
The government is addressing this challenge through the UK Shipbuilding Skills Taskforce (UKSST), which aims to develop and implement a future-focused skills strategy and publish a report of recommended actions in autumn 2023.
Scotland Office
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85 Conclusion Accepted
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
Another challenge identified by contributors related to retraining and lifelong learning for the existing workforce.
Another challenge identified by contributors related to retraining and lifelong learning for the existing workforce. City of Glasgow College told us “a skilled workforce which is regularly upskilled and reskilled across a lifetime is vital to sustaining a world-class shipbuilding … Read more
Government Response
The UK Shipbuilding Skills Taskforce (UKSST) is collaborating across Government, the Devolved Administrations, industry and training providers to develop and implement a future-focussed skills strategy and intends to publish a report of recommended actions in autumn 2023.
Scotland Office
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87 Conclusion Accepted
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
We heard evidence that the MOD and the Scottish Government could both have a better...
We heard evidence that the MOD and the Scottish Government could both have a better understanding of the skills profile of the shipbuilding workforce. This makes workforce planning for a highly advanced sector like military shipbuilding more challenging. Read more
Government Response
The government is addressing this challenge through the UK Shipbuilding Skills Taskforce (UKSST), which aims to develop and implement a future-focused skills strategy and publish a report of recommended actions in autumn 2023.
Scotland Office
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88 Recommendation Accepted
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
Building on the work of the UK Shipbuilding Skills Taskforce, the Ministry of Defence should...
Building on the work of the UK Shipbuilding Skills Taskforce, the Ministry of Defence should commission regular research to develop and keep up to date its understanding of the current and future skills profile of the shipbuilding workforce, and the … Read more
Government Response
The UK Shipbuilding Skills Taskforce (UKSST) is collaborating across Government, the Devolved Administrations, industry and training providers to develop and implement a future-focussed skills strategy and intends to publish a report of recommended actions in autumn 2023.
Scotland Office
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96 Conclusion Accepted
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
The UK Shipbuilding Skills Taskforce’s report should identify the skills demands of the warship industry...
The UK Shipbuilding Skills Taskforce’s report should identify the skills demands of the warship industry specifically, as well as steps that can be taken to meet those needs.
Government Response
The scope of the UKSST aligns with the NSbS Refresh and it will therefore consider the skills requirements and know-how for the entirety of the shipbuilding enterprise, including the warship, commercial, workboat and leisure market sectors, both in the short and long term.
Scotland Office
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1 Conclusion Accepted
Seventh Report - Defence in Scotla…
Scotland's geography and capabilities are critical for UK/NATO defence objectives.
The UK Government is clear that Scotland’s geography, and the capabilities located there, is critical to meeting the UK and NATO’s defence and security objectives in the North Atlantic and the High North.
Government Response
The government welcomed the report, agreeing that Scotland's geography and defence assets are critical to UK and NATO objectives, and reiterated its existing commitment to using these capabilities as part of a UK-wide defence strategy.
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4 Conclusion Accepted
Seventh Report - Defence in Scotla…
UK and NATO face new environmental and political challenges in the High North.
The UK and NATO face new challenges in the North Atlantic in the High North. In particular, the Arctic faces new environmental and political challenges which must be navigated carefully if the region is to remain one of high co-operation … Read more
Government Response
The government states that its 10-year strategy already commits to improving understanding of the region, monitoring challenges, and regularly reviewing priorities, reiterating existing Integrated Review analysis. It also describes ongoing monitoring of subsea infrastructure vulnerability.
Scotland Office
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5 Recommendation Accepted
Seventh Report - Defence in Scotla…
Set out most recent assessment of evolving UK defence and security priorities in North Atlantic
The UK Government should continue to be proactive in considering how the UK’s defence and security priorities in the North Atlantic and the High North may change in the future, in response to the changing geopolitical context and the effects … Read more
Government Response
The government states that its 10-year strategy commits to improving understanding of the region and regularly reviewing defence and security priorities. It outlines its current assessment of challenges, including Russian belligerence, resource competition, and subsea infrastructure vulnerability, reiterating points from the 2021 and 2023 Integrated Reviews.
Scotland Office
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7 Conclusion Accepted
Seventh Report - Defence in Scotla…
Consider new defence responsibilities from climate change and uphold UNCLOS principles
The UK Government should consider how the effects of climate change might create new defence and security responsibilities in the future, in particular for naval policing and search and rescue. The UK should also seek to promote and uphold the … Read more
Government Response
The government states it is monitoring climate change implications for the region. It clarifies that search and rescue is primarily an Arctic State responsibility, though the UK has North Atlantic duties and cooperates. It affirms its commitment to upholding UNCLOS and freedom of navigation, but does not recognise the phrase 'naval policing' in the High North.
Scotland Office
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9 Conclusion Accepted
Seventh Report - Defence in Scotla…
Publish strategy for protecting offshore infrastructure, including deterrence and rapid repair plans
The UK Government should produce and publish a strategy for protecting offshore infrastructure. This should include a plan for how attempts by malign actors to interfere with Critical National Infrastructure can be deterred or prevented, and how damaged infrastructure can … Read more
Government Response
The government states that protecting subsea infrastructure is already a core part of its National Strategy for Maritime Security. It describes ongoing efforts, including inter-departmental cooperation, monitoring, naval patrols, and working with allies to deter threats and ensure resilience, stating that any deliberate attack would be met with a united response.
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10 Recommendation Accepted
Seventh Report - Defence in Scotla…
Set out timeline for Multi-Role Ocean Surveillance Ships and confirm Scottish build
The UK Government should set out the timeline for the refitted Multi-Role Ocean Surveillance Ship, RFA Proteus, and the future purpose-built Multi-Role Ocean Surveillance Ship to come into service. It should state whether it is still the intention, as set … Read more
Government Response
The government committed RFA PROTEUS to reach Initial Operating Capability by mid-2024 and Full Operating Capability by the end of 2024. For the future Multi-Role Ocean Surveillance Ship-2, the program is in the pre-concept phase with no decisions yet made regarding its capability or build location.
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11 Conclusion Accepted
Seventh Report - Defence in Scotla…
UK’s NATO and JEF roles evolving, creating new North Atlantic responsibilities
The UK’s role and responsibilities in NATO may evolve in response to changing geopolitics, including increasing tensions with Russia and the consequent accession of Finland and (as seems likely) Sweden to the alliance. This may entail new or changed responsibilities … Read more
Government Response
The government states it will continue to monitor developments and regularly engage with NATO, JEF, and the Northern Group, acknowledging that its role and responsibilities may evolve. It agrees with the importance of NATO in the High North and actively participates in JEF discussions on regional security.
Scotland Office
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12 Recommendation Accepted
Seventh Report - Defence in Scotla…
Convene discussions with NATO and JEF allies on North Atlantic challenges and expanded role
We recommend that the UK Government convene discussions with its NATO and Joint Expeditionary Force allies about how these alliances should respond to new challenges in the North Atlantic and the High North, and be prepared to take an expanded … Read more
Government Response
The government states it routinely convenes discussions with NATO and JEF allies at all levels, with High North and North Atlantic security being a priority for these engagements. It commits to continue monitoring developments and engaging partners to assess new challenges and prepare for any necessary expanded role.
Scotland Office
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13 Conclusion Accepted
Seventh Report - Defence in Scotla…
Relationships with Arctic allies essential for North Atlantic security objectives
The UK’s relationships with its Arctic allies are essential to meeting common security objectives in the North Atlantic and the High North. These relationships will become more important should the challenges in the region become more prominent.
Government Response
The government states its High North Strategy commits to working with regional allies through various forums and regularly attends Arctic meetings. While rejecting the appointment of a political Arctic Ambassador, it is recruiting a new UK Senior Arctic lead at ambassadorial rank to strengthen engagement with partners in the region.
Scotland Office
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14 Conclusion Accepted
Seventh Report - Defence in Scotla…
Continue contributing to diplomacy in North Atlantic, considering dedicated Arctic ambassador
The UK should continue considering how it can best contribute to diplomacy and collaborative problem-solving in the North Atlantic and the High North. Actions it could take include stepping up its participation in existing fora where appropriate and considering the … Read more
Government Response
The government will continue to send delegations to Arctic forums and is recruiting a new UK Senior Arctic lead at ambassadorial rank to strengthen engagement. It does not believe appointing a political Arctic Ambassador is the right approach for the UK.
Scotland Office
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15 Conclusion Accepted
Seventh Report - Defence in Scotla…
P-8A Poseidon cooperation provides successful model for future defence partnerships.
Cooperation around the P-8A Poseidon Maritime Patrol Aircraft, which has enabled Norwegian aircraft to be maintained at RAF Lossiemouth, and RAF aircraft to be supported in Norway, has been a success, and provides a model for similar defence cooperation in … Read more
Government Response
The government details existing and expanding defence cooperation in the High North, including cold weather training, P8 deployments, and the establishment of a dedicated Littoral Response Group (North), aligning with the successful P-8A cooperation model.
Scotland Office
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16 Conclusion Accepted
Seventh Report - Defence in Scotla…
Pursue further direct bilateral defence cooperation opportunities with Arctic allies like Finland and Sweden.
Alongside its efforts to develop defence and security cooperation in the North Atlantic and the High North through multilateral institutions, the UK Government should pursue further opportunities for direct bilateral cooperation with Arctic allies, including new NATO members Finland and … Read more
Government Response
The government is expanding cold weather training and defence cooperation with Arctic partners, including Finland and Sweden, and is committed to bilateral collaboration, citing a strong track record of joint exercises and aligned activities.
Scotland Office
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18 Conclusion Accepted
Seventh Report - Defence in Scotla…
UK's asset projection from Scottish bases vital for North Atlantic defence strategy.
The UK’s ability to project assets into the North Atlantic and High North if required must be maintained, as this is key to both the UK and NATO’s defence strategy. Currently this capability is based primarily at HMNB Clyde and … Read more
Government Response
The government is committed to maintaining its ability to project assets, investing in new Anti-Submarine Warfare frigates, spending over £3 billion on Scottish defence sites including £1.6 billion on HMNB Clyde, and £470 million on RAF Lossiemouth infrastructure.
Scotland Office
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19 Conclusion Accepted
Seventh Report - Defence in Scotla…
Maintaining Faslane for nuclear deterrent recognised as crucial for UK and NATO.
The committee heard evidence during this inquiry of the need to maintain HM Naval Base Clyde as home to the Royal Navy’s nuclear-armed Vanguard 15 class submarines that form the UK’s Continuous At-Sea Deterrent, as well as the Astute Class … Read more
Government Response
The government welcomes the committee's recognition of HM Naval Base Clyde's strategic importance, confirming it will remain the single operational home for Vanguard and Astute Class submarines, and that investment in it as the UK’s Submarine Centre of Specialisation continues.
Scotland Office
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20 Recommendation Accepted
Seventh Report - Defence in Scotla…
Set out scope for scaling up Scottish defence presence to meet North Atlantic obligations.
In its response to this report, the UK Government should set out what scope it considers for the defence presence in Scotland to be sufficiently scaled up to respond to a scenario where the UK has greater obligations in the … Read more
Government Response
The government states that UK Armed Forces would respond to increased obligations, with the RAF able to rapidly increase assets by revising operational plans for agility. The Army would bolster RAF resilience and could rapidly increase capacity at its Scottish bases for basing assets, including temporary accommodation, and conduct further joint exercises.
Scotland Office
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21 Conclusion Accepted
Seventh Report - Defence in Scotla…
Doubts persist regarding sufficient UK aircraft for North Atlantic and High North presence.
RAF assets based in Scotland contribute to defence in the North Atlantic and the High North in a number of important ways, including surveillance, anti-submarine warfare and threat response by way of the Quick Reaction Alert jets stationed at RAF … Read more
Government Response
The government asserts that its force structure is regularly tested and that capability is not solely measured by aircraft numbers, but by the totality of platforms, systems, and coalition operations. It highlights the 2021 Defence Command Paper and the P-8 fleet, stating it remains confident it has the right force mix, supported by NATO allies.
Scotland Office
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22 Conclusion Accepted
Seventh Report - Defence in Scotla…
Review sufficiency of P-8A, E7, and Typhoon aircraft for North Atlantic security demands.
In its response to this report, the UK Government should address the concerns raised in evidence both to this inquiry and to the Defence Committee over whether the number of P-8A, E7 and Typhoon aircraft is sufficient to provide the … Read more
Government Response
The government addresses concerns by stating that its force structure is regularly tested and capability is assessed by the totality of platforms and systems, including NATO cooperation, not just aircraft numbers. It refers to the 2021 Defence Command Paper and existing P-8 procurement decisions, maintaining confidence in the current force mix while keeping capabilities under review.
Scotland Office
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23 Conclusion Accepted
Seventh Report - Defence in Scotla…
UK possesses limited specialised cold weather capability for High North objectives.
The UK needs a clear sense of what kind of specialised cold weather capability it will need to meet its objectives in the High North. We heard that the UK currently has limited capability for operating in extremely cold environments. … Read more
Government Response
The government has committed to developing sustainable cold weather capability, will examine options to bolster its cold weather equipment and infrastructure, and plans to conduct regular cold weather training with partners. Its refreshed Cold Weather Warfare doctrine will be tested in Q1 2024 and ratified in Q2 2024.
Scotland Office
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24 Conclusion Accepted
Seventh Report - Defence in Scotla…
Review cold weather capability needed for High North defence, focusing on Scotland-based assets.
The UK Government must review, and report to the House, the extent to which, now and in the future, what capability is needed to operate in extremely cold environments at the scale required to meet evolving defence and security objectives … Read more
Government Response
The government states it is already developing, testing, and analysing cold weather capabilities through existing programmes and exercises. Its Cold Weather Warfare doctrine has been refreshed and will be tested in Q1 2024 and ratified in Q2 2024.
Scotland Office
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28 Conclusion Accepted
Seventh Report - Defence in Scotla…
Maximise Scotland’s burgeoning space sector for High North defence capabilities and set measurable targets.
When developing and deploying new space-based technologies in support of defence objectives in the High North, the UK Government should make the most of Scotland’s innovative and rapidly growing space sector, and its geographical advantages as a base for launching … Read more
Government Response
The government details its National Space Strategy, DSIT's work with Scottish stakeholders, and £50 million funding (including £31.5 million for vertical launch from Scotland) to develop the UK space sector and harness Scotland's potential.
Scotland Office
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Government Response AI assessment · 144 of 43 classified
Accepted 60
Accepted in Part 3
Acknowledged 67
Deferred 3
Not Addressed 4
Rejected 7
Total 43 recs + 101 conclusions
Correspondence 2 letters
6 Apr 2023 From committee Letter to Rt Hon Ben Wallace MP, Secretary of State for Defence at Ministry of Defence following up to the Government response to Defence in Scotland: military shipbuilding Report, dated 5 April 2023
Parliament page
7 Feb 2023 To committee Letter from Rt Hon Ben Wallace MP, Secretary of State for Defence at Ministry of Defence following up from Defence in Scotland: Military shipbuilding on 6 December 2022, dated 30 January 2023
Parliament page