Defence Online

New Minister meets Dstl staff at Porton Down

August 25, 2016

Just one month after starting in her new role, Harriett Baldwin MP, has visited staff at Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) at Porton Down.

Having taken over as Minister for Defence Procurement from Philip Dunne MP, in Prime Minister Theresa May’s reshuffle, Mrs Baldwin was eager to meet staff and see first-hand the world-leading science and technology carried out at the site.

Mrs Baldwin was treated to a tour of the site showcasing the breadth of work carried out by the organisation, including cyber defence, protecting aircraft and support to policy making. This included how Dstl scientists had worked to help inform the decision in the past few weeks to lift the ban on women serving in front line ground close combat roles.

The Minister praised the work of staff at Dstl: “While I have only been able to see a fraction of the work carried out at Dstl today, it has reaffirmed my belief in the importance of science and technology for the defence and security of the UK. From ways to protect our Armed Forces, to counter-terrorism support, and to the innovative technologies of the future, Dstl has a vital role to play.”

Dstl Chief Executive Jonathan Lyle said: “As we mark 100 years of defence science at Porton Down, it has been a pleasure to show the Minister some of the ground breaking research that we do and the vital role it plays in keeping our Armed Forces and the British public safe. I look forward to working with our new Minister to deliver the Government’s priorities for defence science and technology.”

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Armed Forces Cyber Defence Dstl Harriet Baldwin MP Porton Down Research Science technology

Post written by: Vicky Maggiani

Vicky has worked in media for over 20 years and has a wealth of experience in editing and creating copy for a variety of sectors.