Source · Select Committees · Defence Committee
Recommendation 7
7
In addition to delaying the publication of the Integrated Review, it seems inevitable that the...
Conclusion
In addition to delaying the publication of the Integrated Review, it seems inevitable that the pandemic must also influence its conclusions. Coronavirus has highlighted serious deficiencies in the UK’s domestic resilience in the face of an anticipated threat. We have agreed this Report before publication of the Integrated Review, but but believe that the Review and the funding of its conclusions must take into account the significance of Defence’s role in underpinning the UKs’ domestic resilience against future shocks of this magnitude, while enabling the Armed Forces to fulfil their primary role of defending our vital interests at home and abroad. (Paragraph 53) 33 Manpower or Mindset: Defence’s Contribution to the UK’s Pandemic Response
Government Response
Acknowledged
HM Government
Acknowledged
The Integrated Review has considered the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the ways in which Defence was called upon to support the cross-Government response. We will improve our ability to test and develop our capabilities through contingency planning and regular exercises, working with wider government, the emergency services, the armed forces, other local responders and industry. This will ensure that Defence is in a position to support future crisis of this magnitude. There is also additional work underway into the future use of the Reserve Forces in supporting domestic national security priorities. The Armed Forces will also continue to provide support to emergency responses, as they have throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, through the MACA process.