Synopsis: |
"The Strategic Defence Review: a new chapter" (CM 5566, Vol 1; ISBN 0101556624) was published by the Ministry of Defence (MoD) in July 2002, in the light of the September 11 terrorist attacks in the US. It examined the strength of the UK's defence and security policy and proposed a number of changes to the priorities and plans as set out in the 1998 Strategic Defence Review (SDR), in order to respond effectively against these new developments in international terrorism. This report examines how far the "New Chapter" has met its objectives and whether it was an appropriate response to security interests and defence needs. The report focuses on issues of doctrine, concepts and general policy. The Committee's findings include: support for the creation of volunteer reserve Civil Contingency Reaction forces, but notes concerns over the effects on the normal activities of volunteer Reserves; lack of a proper debate on how to strike the right balance in combating terrorism between the use of military operations overseas and home defence; and concern that the MoD's proposed changes will further strain the UK's already stretched armed forces.It concludes that the MoD's decision to limit the scope of the 'New Chapter' to the specific threat from international terrorism has failed to take account of wider policy issues; and as a result, has highlighted many areas where recent developments are making the original SDR look increasingly out of date. |