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Clyde Shipbuilders 'Have Certainty'
Monday 30th October 2017
Ravid
Shipbuilders on the River Clyde have certainty over their work and positions, defence secretary Sir Michael Fallon has asserted.
In a visit to the BAE Systems yard in Scotstoun, he stated that "no other industry in Britain has as much certainty as those working in shipbuilding". Sir Michael pointed out that the number of new orders for warships and other vessels for the Royal Navy will provide 20 years worth of work for the industry.
BAE Systems workers on the Clyde are currently working on eight Type 26 frigates, as well as five offshore patrol vessels.
There is also a contract for five Type 31e warships going out to tender. There had been an expectation that these were further guaranteed for the Clyde's shipyards, but BAE Systems, along with its partner Cammell Laird, will have to bid for the work against other shipyards in the UK.
Sir Michael said that he expects a "powerful bid" from BAE Systems and Cammell Laird for the contract.
Trade union Unite has warned the government of the dangers of outsourcing defence contracts to foreign companies following plans announced by BAE earlier this year to cut 2,000 jobs, primarily from its Typhoon and Hawk aircraft production, as well as its marine division.
Unite wants the government to commit to constructing new fighter jets, as well as the new Royal Navy frigates, in the UK, because this will support jobs, skills and communities that rely on the sector.
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