RR 03

Supplementary memorandum from the Ministry of Defence

Q1.  Will the Green Paper be tasked with providing options and making provocative proposals in order to stimulate discussion, or will that be the task of the Defence Review proper?

The Green Paper will set the key underlying issues and questions that the Defence Review will need to address. It is intended to support debate on the major choices facing Defence and help build consensus on the main issues.

Q2. During the process of drawing up the Green Paper, or when it is published, what level of visibility/accessibility will be given to the documents which informed and supported it?

We are considering publishing supporting essays on the model of the SDR and 2003 White Paper. But no decision has yet been taken.

Q3. What role will HM Treasury have in limiting the scope/ambit of the Green Paper and in determining the key questions it is supposed to ask?

The Treasury was consulted on the decision to publish a Green Paper on the lines set out by the Secretary of State on 7 July. A range of departments are being engaged throughout the Green Paper process and they will be consulted on the final text.

Q4. Which OGDs will be on the group with Tom McKane steering the Green Paper?

The Department's Defence Strategy & Plans Group (DSPG) is the principal forum for steering Green Paper work. Representatives of the Cabinet Office, Foreign & Commonwealth Office, Department for International Development, HM Treasury and the Home Office are invited to DSPG meetings when Green Paper issues are being considered.

Q5. How will academics (not appointed to the DAF) be able to participate in the Green Paper process?

We have held, or are planning, three joint academic seminars with independent institutions (Chatham House, the RUSI and one other to be confirmed). In addition we are engaging with already scheduled academic discussion programmes. We have a wide range of individual contacts with experts. We have also posted our views on the King's College 'blog' ("King's of War") inviting comments. This has stimulated an interesting exchange with experts.

Q6. When will the political positions on the DAF be filled?

We are pleased to confirm that membership of the DAF now includes the Right Honourable Lord Robertson of Port Ellen, The Honourable Nicholas Soames MP and The Right Honourable Sir Menzies Campbell MP. A statement for both Houses will be made soon.

Q7. How will the Green Paper take account of the UK's key role within both EU and NATO?  Will either institution provide inputs into the process? 

The UK's partnerships and alliances will be a key theme of the Paper. We have consulted key international staff in both of those organisations.

Q8. Will the Green Paper set out - alongside the key questions it will asking of the Defence Review - how that Review might best be carried out?

The Defence Review will be conducted after the next General Election. It will be for the Government in a new Parliament to determine precisely how the Review should be conducted.

4 November 2009