Follow Up Questions from Withdrawal from Afghanistan Evidence Session

What are the results of the investigations into the MOD data breaches?

The investigations found that the cause of the breaches was not simply human error, but a lack of written processes and training, arising from the intense speed, scale, and operational pressure of the task. As well as putting in place improved processes and training for those dealing with Afghan Relocations and Assistance Policy (ARAP) applications, we developed an IT system to ensure these processes are enforced.

Did the MOD give support for Regimental Corporal-Major Dennis Hutchings’ funeral arrangements?

Yes. A formal request was received on 29 October 2021 to provide a bearer party, which was actioned in line with usual policy. On 2 November 2021, the decision was made by the Army to support the request as a mark of respect to Mr Hutchings, his service, and his family. His former Regiment provided a bearer party and trumpeter at his funeral on 11 November 2021.

A list of items left in Afghanistan following the withdrawal (by soldiers involved in the evacuation and in resources given by the UK to the Afghan National Security Forces)

During Operation PITTING and the withdrawal of the UK military from Afghanistan spare capacity was used on flights to return as much equipment to the UK as possible. However, people were prioritised over equipment at all times to evacuate UK nationals and eligible persons under the Afghan Relocation and Assistance Policy (ARAP). Consequently, a small amount of equipment was left behind or gifted to partner nations.

The precise list of government equipment left behind was: 43 x Civilian Armoured Vehicles (CAVs), 5 x mini-buses, 3 x coaches, 1 x forklift, 84 x sets of public order kits (shields and batons only), and rations & water.

What is the level of support the MOD is giving to Afghan refugees arriving in the UK under non-MOD Schemes?

The whole of government is engaged via Op Warm Welcome in ensuring that Afghan nationals relocated to the UK are provided with the best possible start to life in the UK. The MOD is working to ensure that Afghans with a connection to Defence are supported by a network of service-related expertise and experience, supplementing wider government and third sector integration efforts, making them feel valued for their contribution to Defence and supported in their integration into life in the UK.

Membership of the Women’s Service Network and participants in conversations with the Defence Secretary? (To ensure they are representative of all branches and ranks)

The Defence Secretary has been engaging with representatives from the Gender Balance Working Group, the Naval Servicewomen's Network, the Army Servicewomen's Network and the RAF Gender Network to test the Department’s response to the House of Commons Defence Committee inquiry. Their representatives consist of both officers and non-commissioned officers/ warrant officers (from across multiple NATO ranks: OR-7, WO-1, OF-4 and OF-5, with broad knowledge and operational experience across their services, reflecting a range of trades/ professions and include people with regular and reserves service.

Care was taken to ensure that the members attending round-table discussions with the Secretary of State and other Ministers represented a range of ranks and trades/professions.