Source · Select Committees · Scottish Affairs Committee
Recommendation 11
11
Accepted
Paragraph: 54
UK’s NATO and JEF roles evolving, creating new North Atlantic responsibilities
Conclusion
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 in the North Atlantic and the High North. The same is true of the Joint Expeditionary Force, which may need to respond to new challenges in 42 Defence in Scotland: the North Atlantic and the High North the North Atlantic and the High North. It is highly likely that UK capabilities based in Scotland will be an important part of the contribution to NATO and JEF in the region.
Government Response Summary
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.
Paragraph Reference:
54
Government Response
Accepted
HM Government
Accepted
The Department will continue to monitor developments in the region closely and review our approach in response. We regularly engage NATO, the Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF) and the Northern Group to assess new challenges in the North Atlantic and High North and are prepared to act in defence of regional security and stability. We acknowledge that our role and responsibilities may change in response to geopolitical developments, including increasing tensions with Russia and the consequent accession of Finland and soon Sweden. We agree with the broad reflections on the role of NATO in the High North. The UK advocates for NATO to take a more proactive approach to the region, acknowledging the leadership and expertise of our Arctic Allies. Finnish, and soon Swedish, accession to NATO, will underscore the Alliance’s interests and capabilities in the High North. This approach should be calibrated and proportionate. It should also acknowledge the region’s significance, within a 360-degree approach to our collective deterrence and defence, particularly its crucial importance in enabling reinforcement across the North Atlantic. As the Framework Partner, the UK routinely convenes discussions at all levels from Leaders, Ministerial and Chief of Defence JEF meetings. The High North and North Atlantic security are a priority for the JEF and these discussions. This rhythm of regular engagement will continue as Sweden looks forward to hosting the 2023 JEF Leaders meeting. Prime Minister Sunak highlighted preserving Arctic security and stability as a top priority at the Joint Expeditionary Force Summit in December 2022.