Prime Minister Andy Burnham has highlighted the dual benefits of ongoing nuclear submarine investment, asserting that it will safeguard the nation for future generations while sustaining 47,000 employment and apprenticeship roles. Ahead of his tour to the Barrow-in-Furness shipyard, where the construction of four Dreadnought-class vessels is underway, he emphasized that security is derived not only from military hardware but also from the economic opportunities created for domestic workers.
An allocation of £8.4 billion has been earmarked for the submarine programme to ensure the replacement of the current Vanguard-class fleet remains on schedule. While Conservative shadow defence secretary James Cartlidge acknowledged the development, he critiqued the government for not providing clear commitments regarding full defence funding. Burnham maintains his intention to reach the Nato target of 3.5% of national income allocated to defence by 2035.
The Dreadnought vessels, which serve as the foundation for the UK’s nuclear deterrent, are slated to enter service as the older Vanguard-class ships retire in the 2030s. This initiative, which originated under Tony Blair’s government in 2006, is now entering its fourth phase. The funding is part of a broader £63.6 billion, four-year Defence Investment Plan intended to support various naval projects and facility upgrades.
Burnham also signaled a shift in public procurement policy, noting that he intends to prioritize firms that provide 45-day work placements. By utilizing social value weighting in government contracts, the Prime Minister hopes to increase training opportunities for young people, drawing on his previous experience as the mayor of Greater Manchester.
