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AUKUS

Asked by James CartlidgeConservativeMinistry of DefenceTabled Answered 3 July 2026UIN 12749

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how many times he has held meetings on the AUKUS programme since 5 July 2024.

Answered by Luke Pollard

The Government is clear that AUKUS is a unique strategic partnership that is fundamental to the strength of our collective deterrence in both the Indo-Pacific and the Euro-Atlantic. The Defence Secretary is committed to delivering against our AUKUS commitments and ensuring the long-term success of the partnership.

The Defence Secretary recently discussed AUKUS at:

  • AUKMIN and its preceding bilateral conversation with Deputy Prime Minister Marles on 10 June 2026.
  • The Defence Ministerial Meeting with US Secretary of War Hegseth and Australian Deputy Prime Minister Marles on 30 May 2026.
  • The Defence Ministerial Meeting with US Secretary of War Hegseth and Australian Deputy Prime Minister Marles on 11 Dec 2025.

Given its nature and significance, the Defence Secretary discusses AUKUS at many routine internal, external and international engagements. Consequently, discussions on AUKUS take place across a broad range of meetings, and no central record is held of every instance.

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