Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Maria Eagle and Tristan Osborne

Monday 6th January 2025 Commons Chamber

[Tristan Osborne (Chatham and Aylesford) (Lab)]

T8. BAE Systems in my constituency recently announced an extra £200 million in avionics investment to support the F-35 programme, which will secure 200 extra jobs in the Warren Wood area. Will the Minister commit to reviewing our investment in our defence industry, to ensure that more jobs are secured by well-trained young people throughout the country? Will he also commit to visiting the site to witness that expansion and celebrate that success with our residents and community?

[The Minister for Defence Procurement and Industry (Maria Eagle)]

Yes, she will make a commitment to visit the site. I agree with my hon. Friend: our defence industrial strategy will enhance the incentives for long-term investment in the UK defence sector. It will encourage investment by private firms, alongside public money, align the imperatives of national security, and ensure that we have the necessary skills.