VerbatimParliament, as it happens

Chiefs of Staff: Military Strategic Headquarters

Asked by James CartlidgeConservativeMinistry of DefenceTabled Answered 30 April 2025UIN 47277

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether there is a minimum level of operational experience required to hold the position of Chief of the Defence Staff following the establishment of the Military Strategic Headquarters.

Answered by Luke Pollard

The Chief of the Defence Staff is chosen through a highly rigorous selection process to ensure the most suitable and qualified candidate for the role. This will continue to be the case.

Operational experience is one of the criteria for eligible candidates, along with the requisite leadership and management credentials.

Verbatim has judged this answer against the question that was actually asked — answered, partly answered, or evaded. Sign in to see the verdict →

Open this question in Verbatim →

Every written question, searchable

155,000 questions tabled since the election, with the answer each department gave — and the ones still unanswered, with the clock running. Free to search.

Search written questions →Read on Verbatim