UK Shipbuilding

Opened the debate

Mick Whitley, speaking on behalf of his constituents and the wider industry, highlighted the importance of UK shipbuilding, particularly in Birkenhead's Cammell Laird shipyards. He discussed Cammell Laird’s achievements, including the construction of cutting-edge vessels like the RRS Sir David Attenborough and its role as a leading employer and economic contributor locally. Whitley emphasised concerns about the potential offshoring of work for fleet solid support ships (FSS) under current procurement rules and called on the Government to commit to awarding contracts to British firms such as Team UK, which includes Cammell Laird. He also stressed the need for changes in procurement practices to create a fairer environment for domestic shipbuilders and urged the Minister to ensure future projects are fully built domestically.

Government Response

Jeremy Quin acknowledged the importance of shipbuilding to UK national security and economic prosperity, highlighting recent initiatives such as the appointment of a Shipbuilding Tsar and the creation of the National Shipbuilding Office. He assured the House that plans to double Royal Navy investment in new vessels would be maintained and emphasised the Government’s commitment to ensuring all new Royal Navy vessels are built domestically. Quin noted the upcoming publication of the refreshed national shipbuilding strategy, which will provide a 30-year pipeline for UK shipyards and ensure they have opportunities for both domestic work and export orders. He reaffirmed the Government's commitment to awarding the fleet solid support ships contract in line with ensuring sustainable investment for British shipbuilders while adhering to competitive tender processes.