Response to the Call for evidence: “Defence in Scotland”

Germond, Basil (2023) Response to the Call for evidence: “Defence in Scotland”. UNSPECIFIED.

Abstract

In my evidence, I explain the impacts of climate change and the impacts of Russia's aggression on security and defence in the High North and in the waters north of Scotland. I recommend HM Government to commit to long-term investment to become a net provider of collective security in the High North. This will increase the UK’s capacity to intervene and respond to crises in the region, reassure allies and partners, and deter competitors. This requires investments in the Royal Navy (e.g. capabilities to operate in extreme cold environments), which is a key actor of security and defence in the High North.