Oliver has joined the Armed Forces Parliamentary Scheme, (AFPS) a programme run by the Ministry of Defence to improve Parliamentarians’ understanding of the Armed Forces.

The first event under the scheme was a two day introduction at the Defence Academy in Shrivenham, and following this, all new members of the scheme chose a specific service to focus on, with Mr Dowden deciding on the Royal Air Force.

As part of this he last month visited RAF Wittering to learn more about the work of the RAF first-hand. Speaking afterwards he said: ‘I was delighted to be able to join the Armed Forces Parliamentary Scheme earlier this year and after my induction at the Defence Academy I enjoyed the chance to spend time with the personnel at RAF Wittering.

‘It was fascinating to watch the demonstrations of how they conduct their operations, including bomb disposal, global logistics and combat support. Their professionalism was impressive.

‘We also received detailed briefings from the base’s commander, Group Captain Tony Keeling, on the role the RAF is playing at home and abroad in keeping our country safe.

‘I am looking forward to visiting many more RAF bases and facilities in the coming months.’

Oliver joined the scheme following his appointment as Parliamentary Private Secretary to the Defence Secretary in July, in which position he serves as his senior parliamentary adviser.

Oliver added: ‘We all owe a debt of gratitude to the tremendous hard work and dedication shown everyday around the world by our brave servicemen and women. This scheme gives an invaluable opportunity to see first-hand at ground level what they are doing to defend our country and what I can do as a Member of Parliament to support them.’

‘At a time of growing international insecurity, our Armed Forces are now more important than at many other times in our history. We need only look at rising tensions on the Korean peninsula, continued instability in the Middle East or at Russian aggression on the borders of Europe to see their indispensable role.’