Six leading figures with extensive experience across defence, security, and wider government will support the Strategic Defence Review (SDR) external reviewers.
New members include a NATO Assistant Secretary General and a former Defence Minister in the previous Government.
A root and branch review of UK defence was launched by Prime Minister Keir Starmer last month to make Britain secure at home and strong abroad for decades to come. An externally led review is a first of its kind for the UK and has been widely welcomed.
The three external reviewers leading the SDR are: Lord Robertson, Dr Fiona Hill and General Sir Richard Barrons.
The additional members of the Defence Review Team announced today have been chosen to support this work due to their expertise across the priority areas set out by the Terms of Reference of the SDR. They are:
Rt Hon Sir Jeremy Quin – He is a former Defence Minister in the previous Government and former Chair of the Defence Select Committee, he also served as Minister for the Cabinet Office with responsibility for the Government Commercial Function. Brings significant expertise in acquisition.
Angus Lapsley CMG – He is the NATO Assistant Secretary General for Defence Policy and Planning and over 30 years of experience in the Diplomatic and Civil Services. Brings significant expertise on NATO.
Edward Dinsmore – He has led key elements of the Modernising Defence Programme and pan-Defence reviews for the Chief of Defence Staff. Brings significant expertise on ‘people’.
Robin Marshall – An industry expert and a Non-Executive Director to the MOD’s Defence Board. Brings significant expertise in industry.
Grace Cassy – She is an expert in early-stage technology companies and previously an adviser on national security to former Prime Minister Tony Blair. Brings significant technology expertise.
Jean-Christophe Gray CBE, LVO – He was previously Director Public Spending at HM Treasury, spokesperson for former Prime Minister David Cameron, and currently Director General for Delivery, No10 and Cabinet Office. Brings significant Treasury and cross-government expertise.
Lead Reviewer, Lord Robertson of Port Ellen said: “As the threats facing Britain continue to evolve, we must be clear-eyed about the defensive capabilities we need for the future. The work of our review is already underway and will deliver a clear vision for UK defence.
“I am delighted this expert team have agreed to make time to consider the profound challenges facing our country and how they can be countered. They provide an incredibly valuable range of experience across the defence and security sectors, both in the UK and internationally. Their role in this review process will be invaluable.”
The Strategic Defence Review will be delivered at pace and report in the first half of 2025, with work already underway – recognising of the urgency of the threats facing the UK.
Submissions are being invited until the end of September from serving and retired members of the Armed Forces, the defence industry, the general public, academics, Parliament, and our closest allies and partners, especially in NATO.
The Strategic Defence Review will be delivered at pace and report in the first half of 2025, with work already underway – recognising of the urgency of the threats facing the UK. The portal for input from members of the public is now live with engagement taking place with a wide array of defence stakeholders.
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Post written by: Vicky Maggiani
Vicky has worked in media for over 20 years and has a wealth of experience in editing and creating copy for a variety of sectors.
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