The Department welcomes this report into the importance of the North Atlantic and the High North for UK defence and security, and HMG’s contribution to date. Scotland, like every part of the United Kingdom, offers much to our security, sovereignty, and prosperity, and plays a critical role in the collective defence of our region and global interests. Scotland provides several military bases which are geographically well-placed to carry out UK (and potentially NATO) operations in the High-North and North Atlantic. Equally, while there are many important defence assets located in Scotland, these do not operate in isolation. Defence assets located in Scotland depend on other elements across the UK. Each base or establishment fits together performing a specific, inter-locking function. As part of the UK, Scotland benefits from this capability and we are stronger and safer together. Scotland also benefits from the UK’s extensive defence engagement overseas to project influence and help to safeguard and establish peace and security in countries affected by conflict or instability, maintain competitive advantage, and tackle security threats before they reach the UK.