 "In government, we will make it fundamental that British defence investment is directed first to British business, with a higher bar set for any decision to buy abroad. We will buy, make and sell more in Britain.' Former defence minister John Spellar said it was "a stab in the back for British Yards and Shipbuilding and Engineering workers". It is thought 40% of the value of the work will go overseas and hundreds of foreign jobs, especially in Spain, will be supported or created through the deal. However, British steel will be used in){kind=link}
Defence Secretary Ben Wallace used a visit to a shipyard in Devon to confirm the £1.6billion for Fleet Solid Support ships would be awarded to Team Resolute, led by Spanish firm Navantia
The Tories today betrayed British workers again by handing a £1.6billion shipbuilding deal to a Spanish-led bid.
Defence Secretary Ben Wallace confirmed Team Resolute has won the contract to build three Fleet Solid Support vessels, which will resupply Royal Navy warships at sea.
Unions had campaigned for Team UK, which includes BAE Systems and Babcock, to win the deal to maximise the amount of work going to British yards.
But, speaking on a visit to Harland & Wolff’s yard in Appledore, Devon, Mr Wallace confirmed the contract is going to Team Resolute, which is led by Spanish firm Navantia and includes Harland & Wolff.