Statement of Intent 1 July 2009 - 30 June 2012
Foreword: Minister of Defence
Defence plays a central role in meeting New Zealand's domestic security needs and promoting our foreign policy objectives. This Government's vision for defence is to enhance the New Zealand Defence Force's ability to meet these needs and objectives.
I expect the Ministry of Defence to make a key contribution towards this vision through the provision of excellent defence policy advice, best practice procurement of major items of military equipment, and a professional programme of audits.
The principal policy task facing the Ministry is to conduct a Defence Review (Review 09), leading to the publication of a Defence White Paper. I expect the White Paper to present a practical and affordable plan for the future shape of the New Zealand Defence Force. Having conducted the review, the Ministry and the Defence Force will be heavily engaged in making its objectives a reality over the coming three years, and beyond.
A key expectation of this Government is a marked improvement in the Ministry's procurement outcomes. Defence procurement is a difficult business, given the long lead times. However, there is significant scope for improvement in cost forecasting, meeting timelines, receiving the equipment contracted for, and integrating the equipment with the other aspects of capability. The White Paper is likely to initiate changes in this area.
The Ministry's audit and assessment function is also vital. I expect work in this area over the coming three years to focus particularly on implementation of the Defence White Paper, procurement and management of major military capability, and Defence's commitment to supporting the Government's value for money objectives.
In all of these activities, I expect the Ministry to work in close partnership with the New Zealand Defence Force. The Ministry and the Defence Force are independent organisations, but in any practical sense, they are highly interdependent and must operate accordingly.
Ministerial Statement of Responsibility
I am satisfied that the information on future operating intentions provided by the Ministry of Defence in this Statement of Intent is in accordance with sections 38, 40, and 41 of the Public Finance Act 1989 and is consistent with the policies and performance expectations of the Government.
Hon Dr Wayne Mapp
Minister of Defence
