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Written question asked by Ian Roome (Liberal Democrat) on Friday, 9 October 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 13 October 2026. It was answered by Louise Sandher-Jones (Labour) on Monday, 19 October 2026 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Warships: Territorial Waters

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment his Department has made of the adequacy of the clarity of the division of responsibilities between the Royal Navy, Royal Navy Police and civilian police forces for responding to suspected hostile activity by foreign military vessels within UK territorial waters.

Answer

The Royal Navy works with the Home Office, civilian police and partners across government to protect UK territorial waters, and respond to threats.

Responsibilities and authorisations depend on the circumstances and proposed action. Defence may support civilian authorities through established Military Aid to the Civil Authorities arrangements, while any exercise of maritime law-enforcement powers require a legal basis and must be undertaken by authorised personnel.

Royal Navy Police may exercise specified maritime enforcement powers in defined circumstances. Any review or change must reflect operational needs, applicable law and the UK's different jurisdictions. As the threat picture changes, the MOD supports HMG efforts to ensure the continued security of the UK and our territorial waters, including primary legislation as necessary.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
31018
Session
2026-27
Grouped for answer
Yes
Subjects
National security Police Navy Territorial waters Warships Royal Navy Police
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk