Question
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to page 20 of the Government’s Defence Command Paper, what assessment he has made of the potential effect of a reduction in development aid on his Department’s crisis management approach to prevent and manage crises before they escalate.
Answer
The MOD's ability to prepare for and manage crises before they escalate will be strengthened by an increase in defence spending of £24 billion over the next four years.
As the Defence Command Paper sets out, this significant investment will enable the UK to build a more proactive, adaptable, and engaged Armed Forces working with partners to shape the global environment and manage crises. As a force for good the UK remains a global leader in international development and is committed to supporting the world's poorest people.