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Atomic Weapons Establishment

My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Defence (The Rt Hon Ben Wallace MP) has made the following Written Ministerial Statement.

On 2nd November 2020 I announced to the House [HCWS544] that on the 1st July 2021 AWE plc, the company operating the Atomic Weapons Establishment (AWE) would become a Non-Departmental Public Body, wholly owned by the Ministry of Defence (MOD).

I can confirm that from today, following a constructive and effective transition period, we welcome AWE plc as the newest Arms-Length Body of the MOD.

The change in operating model will further strengthen the relationship between the MOD and AWE plc, enhancing the management of the UK’s nuclear warhead programme whilst also delivering on core MOD objectives and value for money to the taxpayer. AWE plc is part of the Defence Nuclear Enterprise, which is responsible for sustaining and renewing the UK’s nuclear deterrent.