Source · Select Committees · Defence Committee
Eleventh Report - UK Defence and the Indo-Pacific
Defence Committee
HC 183
Published 24 October 2023
Recommendations
3
Accepted in Part
Consolidate closer Indo-Pacific military cooperation and basing efforts into one strategy
Recommendation
The UK’s regional military presence in the Indo-Pacific remains limited and the strategy to which it contributes is unclear. This contrasts to both the US—a global and Pacific power—and to France–a more comparable actor to the UK in terms of …
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Government Response Summary
The government accepts the recommendation to deepen cooperation with partners in the Indo-Pacific but rejects publishing a dedicated cross-government strategy, referencing existing strategic documents. It describes ongoing cooperation and existing military presence without committing to increasing or rebalancing resources as requested.
Ministry of Defence
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4
Accepted in Part
Para 58
Set out detailed plan for SSN-AUKUS submarines on cost, skills, and production
Recommendation
We welcome the announcement of the SSN-AUKUS class submarine, including the increased port visits and the Rotational Force, in maintaining a coherent regional presence. The UK must, however, be realistic and cognisant of the significant hurdles for all AUKUS partners …
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Government Response Summary
The government partially rejects the request for a detailed plan on AUKUS submarine costs and numbers, stating these decisions will be made in due course. However, it accepts the recommendation on skills, announcing a Nuclear Skills Taskforce to address workforce development for AUKUS.
Ministry of Defence
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5
Accepted in Part
Para 59
Expand AUKUS Pillar 2 for supply chain security; consider involving other nations
Recommendation
AUKUS offers a tangible opportunity to respond to growing tensions in the Indo- Pacific. Through Pillar 1 AUKUS, the UK can tackle shared challenges together with our allies, with the goal of upholding the rules-based order. Moreover, Pillar 2 offers …
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Government Response Summary
The government partially agrees, stating it already monitors supply chains and supports the Critical Minerals Strategy. It commits to engaging with allies on Pillar II as it matures but defers expansion to additional partners as they are not yet in a position to consider it.
Ministry of Defence
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