Defence: Think Tanks
The question
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to page 29 of his Department's document entitled Defence Diplomacy Strategy, published on 24 March 2026, whether he will publish a terms of reference for the review into the use of think tanks.
Answered by Al Carns
As part of our implementation of the Defence Diplomacy Strategy, the Ministry of Defence has begun work to understand how we can reinvigorate our approach to think tank engagement to better support defence diplomacy activity and enhance our international relationships. Work on the initial review will be completed before the end of 2026, although we anticipate an ongoing conversation with think tanks rather than a one-off project.
Defence is considering how best to engage with Parliament. We will ensure the review and the insights it delivers can be implemented effectively in a timely manner within Defence and with the think tank community.
The review will be led by the Ministry of Defence’s Defence and Security Policy organisation within the Department of State, with support from the Secretary of State’s Office of Net Assessment and Challenge (SONAC) and other parts of the department as appropriate. The review will be steered by Minister of State Lord Coaker.
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