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To ask His Majesty's Government what conditions (1) regular members of the British Army, (2) members of the Army Reserve, (3) members of the Regular Reserve, (4) members of the recall reserve, and (5) civilians employed by the Ministry of Defence are subject to under service law; and what conditions...
To ask His Majesty's Government what conditions (1) regular members of the British Army, (2) members of the Army Reserve, (3) members of the Regular Reserve, (4) members of the recall reserve, and (5) civilians employed by the Ministry of Defence are subject to under service law; and what conditions...
The Armed Forces Act 2006 (AFA 06) sets out the conditions under which different categories of individuals are subject to service law. Section 367 of the Act sets out the conditions for (1) Regular members, (2) members of the Army Reserve and (3) members of the Regular Reserve as follows:
(1) Every member of the regular forces is subject to service law at all times.
(2) Every member of the reserve forces is subject to service law while—
(a) in permanent service on call-out under any provision of the Reserve Forces Act 1980 (c. 9) or the Reserve Forces Act 1996 (c. 14) or under any other call-out obligation of an officer;
(b) in home defence service on call-out under section 22 of the Reserve Forces Act 1980;
(c) in full-time service under a commitment entered into under section 24 of the Reserve Forces Act 1996;
(d) undertaking any training or duty (whether or not in pursuance of an obligation); or
(e) serving on the permanent staff of a reserve force.
Individuals liable to recall (4) are not members of a reserve force under the Act and would only be subject to service law if they were recalled.
Civilians employed by the Ministry of Defence and immediate family members (if they are civilians) (5) would not be subject to service law under the AFA 06. In certain circumstances they could be subject to service discipline under Section 370 of AFA 06 and these circumstances are set out in Schedule 15 of the Act, such as when they are on an HM aircraft in flight or on a HM ship afloat or they are living or staying with someone who is subject to service law outside the UK.
To ask His Majesty's Government what steps they are taking to enhance the (1) welfare, and (2) safety, of female members of the armed forces.
To ask His Majesty's Government what steps they are taking to enhance the (1) welfare, and (2) safety, of female members of the armed forces.
I am deeply concerned that women in the Armed Forces continue to be subject to unacceptable and criminal sexual behaviours during their service in the Armed Forces. I am clear there is no place for any abuse or unacceptable behaviours within the military. This Government is working hard to support our personnel, stamp out unacceptable behaviour and enhance the welfare and safety of female members of the Armed Forces. We are committed to making changes that create a more inclusive environment and enable cultural reform.
Our Armed Forces personnel play a vital role in protecting the nation, and a range of substantive measures – many already introduced – will help to build a safer, more inclusive environment for them and ensure that their concerns are listened to, and swift appropriate action is taken. These measures include robust policies with powerful sanctions which tackle bullying, harassment, and discrimination, including zero-tolerance policies on unacceptable sexual behaviour, sexual offences and sexual relationships between instructors and trainees, sexual exploitation, and abuse. This Government is also establishing an Armed Forces Commissioner as a new independent champion with the power to investigate issues raised by Service personnel and their families.
In addition, all personnel now complete annual mandatory training to ensure they know and show the standards of behaviour and professionalism the Armed Forces expect. Those who believe they have experienced or witnessed unacceptable behaviour are strongly encouraged to report it. All allegations are thoroughly investigated and if proven can lead to the termination of service of the perpetrator.
These changes are being embedded throughout our culture, policies, and enduring practices across every part of the Armed Forces. However, there is more work to do, and it is important to make lasting and effective change. This Government has stepped up efforts to bring about crucial reform and provide a place where people are proud to work and have faith in the Service Justice System. I expect that such change will give Service personnel the confidence they need to report sexual offences and inappropriate behaviours, knowing they will be listened to. I am clear that everyone must play a role in building and upholding the respectful, professional environment we all need to thrive.
To protect our people, we established the Defence Serious Crime Unit (DSCU) in 2022 and the Victim and Witness Care Unit (VWCU) in 2023. Anyone who has been a victim of serious crime in the Defence community can contact the DSCU who operate a Public Protection Unit with officers trained to handle serious sexual offences, ensuring victims are safeguarded, supported, and referred to support organisations. The VWCU provides an independent, single point of contact for victims and witnesses of serious crimes committed by Service personnel in the UK and overseas; it puts victims and witnesses at the heart of the investigative process, providing a specialist end-to-end service, from initial contact through to court and beyond.
We encourage anyone who feels they are the victim of a crime to come forward and report it, calling the Service Police on 02392 285 180 (24/7) or through their confidential crime line on 0800 085 0658. Crimestoppers can also be contacted to anonymously report a crime or suspicious behaviour by phone 0800 555 111 or online: https://crimestoppers-uk.org/
Additionally, anyone wanting to discuss victim support can contact the VWCU, which operates independently from the single Service Chain of Command, on 07974 074259 or via email people-dscc-vwcugroup@mod.gov.uk. Any information provided to the VWCU will be treated in confidence and individuals can discuss their options for reporting any allegations.
My Lords, the Minister will know that the majority of our police officers do a great job, often in the most difficult circumstances. However, we have seen a number of high-profile cases that have undermined the public’s trust and confidence in our police—cases such as that of Sarah Everard or even of the head of the police watchdog himself having to resign over historic allegations. Is not the question for the Government: what are they going to do to work with the police to restore the necessary public trust and confidence in our police?
My Lords, the Minister will know that the majority of our police officers do a great job, often in the most difficult circumstances. However, we have seen a number of high-profile cases that have undermined the public’s trust and confidence in our police—cases such as that of Sarah Everard or even of the head of the police watchdog himself having to resign over historic allegations. Is not the question for the Government: what are they going to do to work with the police to restore the necessary public trust and confidence in our police?
I join the noble Lord in agreeing that we owe our police officers—the vast majority of whom do an excellent job—our thanks and praise. He will also be aware that there have been a number of reports published on these subjects. The police forces will be coming back imminently with their responses to the HMICFRS report, to which I referred earlier. As I said, I think the report specified that it will be within 56 days. It is absolutely incumbent on the Government to work with all police forces to ensure that they deliver the highest possible standards.
Lords report stage second day. Amendment 72 disagreed to on division (201 to 220). Amendments 74 to 78, 80, 84 to 88 and 90 agreed to. Amendment 91 agreed to on division (191 to 169). Amendments 92 and 93 agreed to. Amendment 94 agreed to on division (178 to 158). Amendments 98 to 104, 106 to 112, 114 to 122, 124 to 126, 128 and 129, 131 to 137, 139 and 140, 142 to 162, 165, 169 and 170, 173 to 188 and 190 to 203 agreed to. Bill, as amended, ordered to be printed. (HL Bill 75).
Lords report stage second day. Amendment 72 disagreed to on division (201 to 220). Amendments 74 to 78, 80, 84 to 88 and 90 agreed to. Amendment 91 agreed to on division (191 to 169). Amendments 92 and 93 agreed to. Amendment 94 agreed to on division (178 to 158)....
My Lords, often in this House there are important occasions when there are really good debates. On this set of amendments, we have heard some brilliant speeches from all who have spoken: the noble Baroness, Lady Stroud, the noble Lords, Lord Blencathra, Lord Alton and Lord Fox, and my noble...
My Lords, often in this House there are important occasions when there are really good debates. On this set of amendments, we have heard some brilliant speeches from all who have spoken: the noble Baroness, Lady Stroud, the noble Lords, Lord Blencathra, Lord Alton and Lord Fox, and my noble...
Moved by
Lord Coaker
138: After Clause 98, insert the following new Clause—
“Audit of Ministry of Defence procurement
(1) Within one month of the passing of this Act, the Secretary of State must commission the National Audit Office to produce and publish a report setting out any instances of Ministry of Defence procurement...
Moved by
Lord Coaker
138: After Clause 98, insert the following new Clause—
“Audit of Ministry of Defence procurement
(1) Within one month of the passing of this Act, the Secretary of State must commission the National Audit Office to produce and publish a report setting out any instances of Ministry of Defence procurement...
My Lords, I say from the outset that this is a probing amendment to give us the opportunity once again to talk about defence equipment, and I am pleased to see the noble Baroness, Lady Goldie, here. I was minded when I saw her rushing in to do what somebody...
My Lords, I say from the outset that this is a probing amendment to give us the opportunity once again to talk about defence equipment, and I am pleased to see the noble Baroness, Lady Goldie, here. I was minded when I saw her rushing in to do what somebody...
That is totally acceptable, and I am very appreciative of it. The reason I asked was because the National Audit Office, commenting on the 2022-23 equipment plan, said it was already out of date because of inflation, Ukraine, the economic situation, et cetera. So I very much appreciate the offer...
That is totally acceptable, and I am very appreciative of it. The reason I asked was because the National Audit Office, commenting on the 2022-23 equipment plan, said it was already out of date because of inflation, Ukraine, the economic situation, et cetera. So I very much appreciate the offer...
I thank the noble Baroness for her reply and her offer of a letter. I stress how important that letter is, given the quote I am about to read, which summarises the National Audit Office’s assessment of the equipment plan that the Government published:
“The equipment plan is based on data...
I thank the noble Baroness for her reply and her offer of a letter. I stress how important that letter is, given the quote I am about to read, which summarises the National Audit Office’s assessment of the equipment plan that the Government published:
“The equipment plan is based on data...
Lords report stage first day. Amendment 1 agreed to. Amendment 3 (to amendment 2) agreed to on division (196 to 183). Amendment 2, as amended, agreed to. Amendments 5 to 8, 10 to 22, 24 to 32, 34 and 39 to 40 agreed to. Amendment 46 agreed to on division (163 to 162). Amendment 47 agreed to on division (165 to 150). Amendments 49 to 52, 55 to 57 and 59 to 71 agreed to.
Lords report stage first day. Amendment 1 agreed to. Amendment 3 (to amendment 2) agreed to on division (196 to 183). Amendment 2, as amended, agreed to. Amendments 5 to 8, 10 to 22, 24 to 32, 34 and 39 to 40 agreed to. Amendment 46 agreed to on division...
My Lords, I thank the Minister and her predecessor for their engagement with us and other noble Lords on this Bill as it made its progress through your Lordships’ House. I join with other noble Lords in saying to the Minister that we all believe, from where I am speaking,...
My Lords, I thank the Minister and her predecessor for their engagement with us and other noble Lords on this Bill as it made its progress through your Lordships’ House. I join with other noble Lords in saying to the Minister that we all believe, from where I am speaking,...
We would all be grateful if the noble Baroness reflected further on Clause 11 and government Amendment 34, as she said.
We would all be grateful if the noble Baroness reflected further on Clause 11 and government Amendment 34, as she said.
My Lords, I agree with much of what the noble Lord, Lord Fox, has just said. The Delegated Powers and Regulatory Reform Committee’s report was particularly damning and some of the language that it used about the Procurement Bill was, frankly, very surprising. It would be churlish now not to...
My Lords, I agree with much of what the noble Lord, Lord Fox, has just said. The Delegated Powers and Regulatory Reform Committee’s report was particularly damning and some of the language that it used about the Procurement Bill was, frankly, very surprising. It would be churlish now not to...
I am sorry to interrupt. I want to say that the noble Baroness, Lady Goldie, was particularly helpful when I met her and said that she would look to bring about this change. I apologise for not mentioning her.
I am sorry to interrupt. I want to say that the noble Baroness, Lady Goldie, was particularly helpful when I met her and said that she would look to bring about this change. I apologise for not mentioning her.
My Lords, I have just a few brief remarks on this group. Before I come on to the main point that I want to make, I shall say that I think Amendment 37, tabled by the noble Baroness, Lady McIntosh, about local produce and the local procurement of foodstuffs is...
My Lords, I have just a few brief remarks on this group. Before I come on to the main point that I want to make, I shall say that I think Amendment 37, tabled by the noble Baroness, Lady McIntosh, about local produce and the local procurement of foodstuffs is...
My Lords, I support what my noble friends Lady Blower and Lord Watson, and the noble Lord, Lord Storey, have said.
Among the great casualties of the pandemic over the last couple of years have been millions of schoolchildren —the consequences for them have been enormous. I know that we all...
My Lords, I support what my noble friends Lady Blower and Lord Watson, and the noble Lord, Lord Storey, have said.
Among the great casualties of the pandemic over the last couple of years have been millions of schoolchildren —the consequences for them have been enormous. I know that we all...
Further to that point of order, Mr Speaker. Is there any power that you have to enable this House and the public to properly understand what the Prime Minister has just said to us? According to the law passed by this House, if a deal or no deal is not...
Further to that point of order, Mr Speaker. Is there any power that you have to enable this House and the public to properly understand what the Prime Minister has just said to us? According to the law passed by this House, if a deal or no deal is not...
To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, what steps he has taken to ensure that overseas domestic workers are informed of their rights as workers in the UK; and if he will make a statement.
To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, what steps he has taken to ensure that overseas domestic workers are informed of their rights as workers in the UK; and if he will make a statement.
The Immigration Rules governing the Overseas Domestic Worker (ODW) visa are designed to ensure that the worker will not be subject to exploitative working conditions in the UK. ODWs are provided with a bespoke leaflet informing them of their employment rights when they lodge their visa application, before they enter the UK.
The Government is currently running a procurement exercise to identify a provider of the information sessions for Overseas Domestic Workers. The results of this tendering exercise will be released in due course.
To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, what the timeframe is for the planned information sessions on the employment rights of overseas domestic workers; and if he will make a statement.
To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, what the timeframe is for the planned information sessions on the employment rights of overseas domestic workers; and if he will make a statement.
The Immigration Rules governing the Overseas Domestic Worker (ODW) visa are designed to ensure that the worker will not be subject to exploitative working conditions in the UK. ODWs are provided with a bespoke leaflet informing them of their employment rights when they lodge their visa application, before they enter the UK.
The Government is currently running a procurement exercise to identify a provider of the information sessions for Overseas Domestic Workers. The results of this tendering exercise will be released in due course.
That is the fundamental point. We must give people not only the right to complain but the confidence to come forward. Will the Minister consider talking to the Immigration Minister about how to give that confidence to people who come to work on these schemes, both when they arrive and...
That is the fundamental point. We must give people not only the right to complain but the confidence to come forward. Will the Minister consider talking to the Immigration Minister about how to give that confidence to people who come to work on these schemes, both when they arrive and...