32 Acknowledged

A programme of AUKUS’ scale and scope will not succeed if it is perceived within...

Conclusion
A programme of AUKUS’ scale and scope will not succeed if it is perceived within Whitehall as one of many defence programmes competing for scarce resources. Only strong and visible political leadership from the very top of Government can counter a drift into bureaucratic obscurity and ensure that AUKUS receives the funding and priority that the nation’s defence and security demands. (Conclusion, Paragraph 147)
Government Response Summary
The government acknowledged the conclusion, affirming the Prime Minister's full commitment to AUKUS and highlighting existing measures such as appointing a Special Representative and establishing a new Cabinet Office team to ensure the program receives necessary focus and priority.
Government Response
Acknowledged
HM Government Acknowledged
The Government is grateful to the Committee for its report and the conclusions and recommendations within. The Prime Minister remains fully committed to delivering against our AUKUS commitments, injecting pace, focus and significant investment, alongside the US and Australia. The Prime Minister recognises AUKUS as a strategic partnership which stretches beyond defence. This, coupled with a clear understanding of the imperative to deliver at pace, was central to his decision to appoint a Special Representative and to direct the establishment of a new team in the Cabinet Office to drive pace and renewed impetus across government. uncertain global security environment, and the Government is clear that the evolving security context further reinforces the strategic significance of AUKUS. The AUKUS partnership is a multi-decade investment in global security and stability, which requires a long-term commitment to delivery. The Government remains fully focused on achieving this, and would welcome the opportunity to update the Committee on progress at the beginning of 2027. We look forward to continuing to work with Parliament to ensure the long-term success of the AUKUS partnership.
Addressee Bodies
Ministry of Defence
Timeline
Recommendation age 0.3 yrs
Report published 28 Apr 2026