§ Mr. RosindellTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what assessment he has made of how proposed defence spending changes will affect the ability of the United Kingdom to act unilaterally in any future military action. [144691]
§ Mr. HoonThe Defence White Paper, Delivering Security in a Changing World, set out our requirement for flexible Armed Forces that are structured and equipped to deliver precise and rapid military effect. The changes the White Paper demands will enhance the UK's ability to conduct limited national operations and to pursue our security objectives when acting alongside allies and coalition partners. As I said in my statement of 11 December (Official Report, 11 December 2003, column 1211), work is currently underway to develop the details of the individual systems and structures appropriate for the policy context set out in the White Paper, and I shall make further announcements on the results of that work next year.