London-Tanmanjit Singh Dhesi MP (Tan Dhesi) Chair of the UK Parliament’s Defence Committee and the first turbaned Sikh MP to hold the position has been using his role to push for greater fairness, effectiveness, and equality across the UK’s defence sector.
In recent months, Tan Dhesi has drawn attention to the importance of ensuring that all service personnel regardless of gender have the protective gear they need to stay safe. “Women are an indispensable part of our Armed Forces, and yet they are not supplied with body armour suitable for their bodies,” he said, highlighting a long‑standing issue that can affect performance and safety on operations.
Dhesi’s engagement on this topic took him to meet with the NP Aerospace team to view British‑made female body armour, including designs being sent to the front line in Ukraine. These innovations reflect growing awareness that traditional, unisex armour often fails to fit women correctly a problem documented in research showing that poor fit can reduce comfort, mobility, and protection.
As Defence Committee Chair, Dhesi has also pressed the Ministry of Defence on broader defence policy and procurement. He has raised questions about how defence equipment and supplies are sourced, including emphasising domestic industrial capacity and the needs of service personnel. For example, he has queried the use of British‑made steel in defence contracts and urged support for the UK supply chain.
In Parliament, Dhesi has not shied away from holding the Ministry of Defence to account, whether on matters of procurement, equipment safety, or strategic planning. In one Commons session, he challenged ministers over delays and technical issues with key Army vehicle programmes, arguing that they raise concerns about operational readiness and the safety of those who depend on them.
Dhesi’s work on defence equality is part of a broader agenda to ensure that the UK’s Armed Forces are well‑equipped, fairly treated, and reflective of the society they serve. “I will be a voice in Parliament for Armed Forces personnel and veterans brave individuals who make an invaluable contribution to our safety and security,” he said upon becoming Defence Committee Chair, underlining his commitment to their welfare.