A wide-ranging debate in the House of Lords on 30 April saw peers from across the political spectrum press the Government to deliver not just a strategy, but a sustained programme of orders to rebuild Britain’s shipbuilding capacity.
The exchange, led by Defence Minister Lord Coaker, highlighted concerns over the lack of consistent naval procurement, uncertainty around export support, and missed opportunities for UK industry.
Opening the discussion, Lord Beamish (Labour) reiterated the Government’s commitment to supporting a thriving shipbuilding sector across the UK, encompassing everything from full vessel builds to repair and integration: “The Ministry of Defence continues to support the sector,” he said. However, Lord Coaker, also representing the Ministry of Defence, was more direct in his critique of past failings.
View Full Article Here