House of Commons · Westminster Hall
14 October 2020 · 2 other contributors · 4,536 words
Opened by Virginia Crosbie Con Ynys Môn
Responding minister: Jeremy Quin
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
Virginia Crosbie raised concerns about raf valley: funding and employment in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.
Key points
Key requests to Government
I ask the Minister to acknowledge the significance of RAF Valley and to give us his absolute assurance that the MOD recognises Anglesey's appreciation of the station. I also request information on current negotiations with BAE Systems, and assurances about future funding and employment at RAF Valley beyond 2025.
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.
Opened the debate
I am concerned about the future of RAF Valley as a critical employer and training centre for Ynys Môn. The base provides advanced jet training, operates essential rescue services, and supports local youth programmes. With over 1,500 personnel and numerous industry partners, it is vital to the island's economy and community life. There are high levels of youth unemployment on Anglesey, and RAF Valley offers apprenticeships and long-term career opportunities for young people.
He congratulated the hon. Lady for her industrious efforts on behalf of her constituents and highlighted the essential work done by the 1,500 RAF service personnel, civil servants, and contractors at RAF Valley, emphasizing the importance of the relationship between the RAF and the local community.
Congratulated the hon. Member for Ynys Môn on presenting the case for RAF Valley, expressing admiration for the base's pilot training focus and its economic significance to Anglesey. Raised concern over potential job losses due to contract negotiations between BAE Systems and the Ministry of Defence for T1 and T2 Hawk aircraft, with 50-70 jobs potentially moving to RAF Leeming by 2023 and a further 100 jobs at risk by 2033. Asked the Minister to comment on these issues.
Government Response
Jeremy QuinIt is a pleasure to serve under your chairmanship, Mr. Twigg. I wish to congratulate Virginia Crosbie for her advocacy regarding RAF Valley as a vital base and employer in her constituency. The minister emphasises the importance of cross-party support for defence, highlighting RAF Valley's role in training pilots who will protect UK airspace and fly from new aircraft carriers. The Government has committed £3.5 billion towards military flying training and recently spent £20 million refurbishing the runway at RAF Valley. Modern Texan and updated Hawk T2 aircraft are being used to train future pilots, while a commitment was made in 2015 to increase fast jet squadrons, with more Texan aircraft coming on stream to deliver this training. Additionally, the minister mentioned the new Jupiter helicopter for search and rescue training at RAF Valley. The base has seen an employment growth from around 450 employees to just over 600 due to investments in infrastructure and skills development. Concerning the recent speculation about Hawk T1 maintenance, no decisions have been made regarding BAE Systems' future at RAF Valley. Discussions are ongoing on potential options for a Hawk 2020 support contract, with considerations including operational reliability, value-for-money arguments, and the UK Government's commitment to levelling up.