Jesse Norman highlights the success of the New Model Institute for Technology and Engineering as an engine of growth and opportunity, and invites the Secretary of State to visit the university and explore how this model could be replicated around the country.
Jesse Norman asks if unused funds from the Stronger Towns Fund could be redeployed from areas where they haven't been fully used to areas, such as Hereford, where the scheme has been so successful.
Speaking in a general debate on defence spending, Jesse Norman raises the need for heightened awareness of the seriousness of the current international threats and calls on the MOD to do more to build consent for increased spending on defence and the defence supply chain.
Following the Secretary of State for Defence’s statement on the cyber attack where a malign actor hacked into the armed forces payment network, Jesse Norman asks about sanctions against the contractor if that contractor is found to be in breach of MOD guidelines and raises concerns about the safety and wellbeing of the soldiers whose data was stolen.
Jesse Norman welcomes the Automated Vehicles Bill as it passes its final stages in the Commons. The Bill, which Jesse worked on when he was Transport Minister, addresses the legal and regulatory requirements in order to develop and deploy automated vehicles on public roads.
Jesse Norman highlights the unparalleled complexity and threats facing the world and emphasises the need for strategic readiness and a shift in defence thinking. He calls for a more intelligent deployment of resources between public and private sectors with the ultimate focus being on preparing for potential conflicts and the necessary increase in defence spending.
Jesse Norman highlights Russia’s plans for a ten-fold increase in its production of shells and ammunition in the next two or three years and asks about the UK, Europe and NATO allies’ longer-term response to this serious challenge.
Jesse Norman welcomes the support given to members of the armed forces with their cost of living and urges the Government to further support members of the special forces as they and their families face additional burdens.
