Recommendation 31

HM Government · verbatim extract Accepted

The Government agrees with the Committee’s conclusion. The National Security Strategy and SDR outlined the threat picture and the UK’s intention publicly. A further £6bn was announced through the SDR to upgrade our nuclear submarine production facilities. This will support tens of thousands of jobs in Barrow, Derby and Sheffield and will ensure we have the capacity to build a larger fleet of more capable submarines at a quicker rate than before; a new submarine every 18 months. The UK has also deepened nuclear cooperation with France, as set out in the Northwood Declaration, including stating that while our nuclear forces are independent, they can be coordinated. Conclusion: The National Security Strategy is clear that sovereignty over certain national security capabilities, including nuclear, emerging technologies, shipbuilding and steelmaking, is important. However, beyond this, there is no clear definition of how the Government defines what it considers to be a sovereign capability. Nor is there sufficient indication of what specific capabilities and technologies the Government intends to prioritise as part of this work. (Paragraph 151). Conclusion: We appreciate that the definition of sovereignty will differ by sector and by degree. However, the general lack of clarity on definitions and objectives complicates research and development planning and investment. The UK has a strong base of talent and skills in emerging technologies—artificial intelligence in particular—where some level of sovereignty will be desirable and the Government must ensure that this advantage is utilized.(Paragraph 152).