Recommendation 18

We have heard that external engagement in the Review process provides a challenge function to the Government’s understanding, can act as an early signpost to stakeholders who can contribute to achieving the UK’s security and defence priorities and contributes to the legitimacy of the review’s outcomes. External consultation must be structured in a clear and transparent way so that all interested stakeholders can contribute. In some cases, there may be existing mechanisms for Government to solicit the views of external stakeholders (such as the Defence Suppliers Forum, the CDS’ Strategy Forum, and the Defence Policy Board) and in other cases new mechanisms and approaches should be explored. In its response to this report, Government should describe the process by which the following constituencies will be involved in the Review: a. Parliament (including relevant Select Committees) b. The public c. Civil society and academia d. International allies and partners e. Industry and trade associations f. Serving Armed Forces personnel of all ranks (Paragraph 130) In Search of Strategy — The 2020 Integrated Review 60