Source · Select Committees · Scottish Affairs Committee
Recommendation 12
12
Accepted
Paragraph: 55
Convene discussions with NATO and JEF allies on North Atlantic challenges and expanded role
Recommendation
We recommend that the UK Government convene discussions with its NATO and Joint Expeditionary Force allies about how these alliances should respond to new challenges in the North Atlantic and the High North, and be prepared to take an expanded role in the region if required.
Government Response Summary
The government states it routinely convenes discussions with NATO and JEF allies at all levels, with High North and North Atlantic security being a priority for these engagements. It commits to continue monitoring developments and engaging partners to assess new challenges and prepare for any necessary expanded role.
Paragraph Reference:
55
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.