An announcement on mortgage deals for the Armed Forces and military co-operation within the EU lead this morning's defence news.
Boxing day deal on mortgages for Armed Forces
There is coverage on Press Association and other outlets that Defence Minister Mark Lancaster has today announced that personnel redeployed within the UK will be able to rent out their homes without facing higher costs or having to change their mortgage.
Defence Minister Mark Lancaster said:
Our Armed Forces keep us safe and rightly we should be making sure they’re fully supported. This extension means our brave men and women will save time and money when they are fulfilling vital roles across the country and is another example of how the Covenant is making a real difference.
You can read more here.
EU military cooperation
The Express carries comments from a retired Major about the Government's position on EU military cooperation.
An MOD spokesperson said:
As the Defence Secretary has made clear, we remain committed to the security of the European continent and will resist any attempt to unnecessarily duplicate NATO structures.
Defence procurement
The Guardian, the Daily Mail and the Times write that the MOD has reported dozens of allegations of bribery and corruption. Forty-four allegations have been referred to law enforcement agencies by the MOD since 2011, according to figures released to parliament by defence minister Harriett Baldwin.
Defence Minister Mark Lancaster said:
The Ministry of Defence takes allegations of fraud, theft, corruption and bribery seriously and works hard to detect and deter it. There are robust processes in place to raise awareness of the need for vigilance and we actively encourage individuals to report fraud, theft, corruption and bribery. The MoD routinely carries out checks on potential contractors prior to contract award, including on criminal activity, such as convictions for tax evasion, bribery or fraud, and a review of a company's audited accounts.
Raqqa
The Telegraph commentate on the RAF's role in the fight against Daesh, claiming that it will be stepping up its role in Syria in the new year.
You can stay up to date with UK's air operations in the fight against Daesh here.
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