Written Question·Ministry of Defence·UIN 104225

Armed Forces: Northern Ireland

Tabled: 8 January 2026
Answered: 30 January 2026

Question

James Cartlidge

Conservative — South Suffolk

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether he has discussed the potential impact of the Northern Ireland Troubles Bill on recruitment and retention with the (a) Chief of the Defence Staff, (b) Chief of the General Staff, (c) First Sea Lord, (d) Ch

Answer

Al Carns
My Ministerial colleagues and I routinely meet with the Single Service Chiefs, where we discuss a range of priority Defence matters. The hon. Member will understand that it would be inappropriate to comment further on these discussions.