Fylde MP Mark Menzies has welcomed the largest investment in our nation’s defence since the end of the Cold War – and said the funding would secure thousands of jobs and create hundreds more on the Fylde coast.
Mr Menzies spoke after Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced an additional £24.1 billion in funding for our country’s defence.
The funding will help safeguard the security of the nation and bring prosperity to every corner of the Union – while revitalising British shipbuilding.
Mr Menzies said: “This is the largest investment in decades for our Armed Forces. The funding will not only revitalise British shipbuilding, it will also sustain thousands of jobs in the aerospace supply chain, and create a further 10,000 across the defence industry.
“The spending is a significant boost for BAE systems’ Team Tempest and the next generation of combat aircraft being developed in Warton.
“The commitment by the Government means the UK will invest in cutting-edge technology, and remain a global leader in domains such as cyber and space and cement the UK’s position as the largest defence spender in Europe and the second largest in NATO.
“The jobs created will reflect the expertise and ingenuity of British people and ensure our we maintain vital skills bases across key industries.”
The commitment will cement the UK’s position as the largest defence spender in Europe and the second largest in NATO.
The funding also exceeds the Conservative’s manifesto commitment to increase defence spending.
Announcing the funding, Prime Minister Boris Johnson, said: “I have taken this decision in the teeth of the pandemic because the defence of the realm must come first.
“The international situation is more perilous and more intensely competitive than at any time since the Cold War and Britain must be true to our history and stand alongside our allies. To achieve this we need to upgrade our capabilities across the board.
“This is our chance to end the era of retreat, transform our Armed Forces, bolster our global influence, unite and level up our country, pioneer new technology and defend our people and way of life.”
Defence Secretary, Ben Wallace, added: “This is excellent news for Defence, and provides us with the financial certainty we need to modernise, plan for the future and adapt to the threats we face. It demonstrates the Prime Minister’s recognition of how important Defence is to our resilience and to the reputation of the United Kingdom.
“This settlement secures UK jobs and livelihoods, allows us to invest in our fantastic shipyards and aerospace industry, spreading prosperity to every corner of the UK.
“Next year represents a huge opportunity for this country, and Defence will be at the forefront of creating the jobs and business opportunities that will help us build back from the pandemic.
“Over the next few months I will set out in more detail our ambitious agenda for Defence.”