Delivering the keynote speech at the London Defence Conference, Prime Minister Keir Starmer, described the government’s task to seize upon the ‘defence dividend’ presented by the increased investment in defence, in order to create jobs, wealth and opportunity in every corner of the country.
In doing so he highlighted how the government’s boost to defence spending – the highest since the Cold War – will not only provide safety and security for the United Kingdom, but also cement the UK’s status as a defence industrial leader, with more high skilled jobs for people proud to keep our country safe.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: “Our task now is to seize the defence dividend – felt directly in the pockets of working people, rebuilding our industrial base and creating the jobs of the future.
“A national effort. A time for the state, business and society to join hands, in pursuit of the security of the nation and the prosperity of its people.
“An investment in peace, but also an investment in British pride and the British people to build a nation that, once again, lives up to the promises made to the generation who fought for our values, our freedom and our security.”
The Prime Minister also used his speech to deliver a tribute to the bravery of the veterans who secured victory 80 years ago and the remarkable men and women who carry the vital task of protecting our security today.
At the Conference the Prime Minister addressed policymakers, military figures, defence firms and academics from around the world.
In the face of global instability, he reflected on how the conference theme ‘Alliances’ should mean not only our iron-clad commitment to NATO and Western Values but also an opportunity to double down on efforts to work hand-in-hand with business and society to make the UK better off and more secure.
He announced the latest significant investment in British expertise with a £563 contract for Rolls-Royce for the maintenance of Britain’s fleet of Typhoon fighter jets. The work to maintain 130 Typhoon engines will take place at Rolls-Royce’s sites, supporting hundreds of jobs in Bristol and beyond.
The announcement supports the government’s priority of continuing the UK’s great tradition of building the ships, missiles, artillery, vehicles, aircraft and more that keeps us safe – cementing the British defence industry’s place as the engine of national renewal.
Image credit: Sean Aidan Calderbank / Shutterstock.com
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Vicky has worked in media for over 25 years and has a wealth of experience in editing and creating copy for a variety of sectors.
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