This week in the House of Commons, Member of Parliament for Epping Forest Dr Neil Hudson, spoke during an Urgent Question on defence raised by His Majesty’s Opposition.
In recognition of Armed Forces Week, Dr Hudson paid heartfelt tribute to the courage and commitment of the men and women serving in the UK’s Armed Forces. He underscored the vital role they play in safeguarding the nation’s security.
During his intervention, Dr Hudson sought clear reassurance from the Minister that the UK’s continuous at-sea nuclear deterrent remains a top priority for the Government.
In the Chamber, Epping Forest MP Dr Hudson said:
"In Armed Forces Week, I want to thank our brave servicemen and women who do so much to keep us safe.
"I welcome the Minister’s response to this urgent question tabled by His Majesty’s Opposition, but can she give us a cast-iron reassurance that our continuous at-sea nuclear deterrent will be supported and maintained by His Majesty’s Government, and that they will not contemplate any reduction in the submarine fleet from four to three submarines, which was alarmingly floated by the third party not so long ago?"
In reply, Defence Procurement Minister, Maria Eagle MP said:
"I and the Government have been very clear about our commitment to the continuous at-sea deterrent and to procuring the new Dreadnought boats and the new warhead, so I can give the hon. Member an absolute assurance on that."
Speaking afterwards, Dr Hudson commented:
“I want to pay tribute to the courageous men and women of our Armed Forces, who do so much to keep our nation safe.
“In these increasingly dangerous times, it is vital that we continue to uphold and invest in our continuous at-sea deterrent, ensuring the UK’s security and global stability.”
