Sir Nicholas Soames: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what plans he has to maintain a permanent naval presence in (a) the Indo-Pacific region and (b) South East Asia.

Gavin Williamson, Secretary of State for Defence: The Royal Navy plays a crucial role in the projection of UK global influence, upholding the Rules Based International System which delivers protection, peace and security for all and countering international threats to the UK, its interests and our overseas territories. Our global network of operational assets and logistic support bases enables the UK to play a leading role in delivering international security. As such, we have a duty to constantly review our operational lay down and improve the methods by which we deliver these effects and to ensure that the UK is always best placed and prepared to continue our commitments to global security.

Grouped Questions: 216900

Hansard

216890