Source · Select Committees · Defence Committee
Recommendation 19
19
Accepted
Defence industrial base recommendations remain partially implemented, with effectiveness and progress difficult to assess.
Conclusion
The defence industrial base has been subject to numerous reviews, plans and strategies, all of which have identified recommendations. However, many of those have only been partially implemented. Whilst the Government appears to be committed to solving some of the most intractable issues, it is too early at this point to judge the progress of these measures let alone their effectiveness. (Conclusion, Paragraph 84)
Government Response Summary
The government details £773 million in new funding for Defence Industrial Strategy (DIS) commitments, including investment in six new munitions factories, launching a Defence Office for Small Business Growth, and a £400 million ringfenced budget for UK Defence Innovation.
Government Response
Accepted
HM Government
Accepted
We appreciate the Committee’s observation and recognise the importance of implementing the DIS commitments. Not only did the Defence Industrial Strategy include measures to address these intractable issues, but implementation was a key consideration. All commitments have identified owners, and implementation is supported by £773 million of new funding. Although some measures will take time to show results, implementation of priority actions have already begun, including strengthening supply chains through investment in six new munitions factories, launching the Defence Office for Small Business Growth, and investing in research and development through the launch of UK Defence Innovation (UKDI) with a £400 million ringfenced budget. Implementation is a key priority for the new National Armaments Director and progress will be monitored closely and directly supported by the Defence Industrial Joint Council (DIJC) as part of a new and enduring partnership with the defence sector, and by the cross-Government Defence Growth Board and Growth Mission Board. We remain committed to ensuring that the DIS delivers meaningful benefits for UK defence and industry.