To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what steps he is taking to support the development of cyber capabilities within the defence sector through partnerships with UK (a) micro, (b) small and (c) medium-sized technology companies.

The UK Ministry of Defence (MOD) is committed to working collaboratively with innovators in the technology sector to improve cyber capabilities across Defence. We recognise the valuable skills, technology, and pace of development in cyber, much of which is driven by Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs). The recently published Defence Industrial Strategy - Statement of Intent acknowledges the vital contribution SMEs can offer not just in cyber but across the spectrum of capabilities. Our priority is to create new partnerships between Government and business, and as a first step we will create the Defence Industrial Joint Council with a specific objective of broadening participation, which includes the SME community.

The MOD is further working closely with industry and external stakeholders in conducting a Strategic Defence Review 25 that will set the Defence Plan including the future intent for cyber.