The strategic significance of His Majesty’s Naval Base Clyde, which houses the UK’s nuclear deterrent, was highlighted in the House of Commons as MPs discussed retention challenges and cooperation with the Scottish Government to support the site.
During the debate, Joani Reid, Labour MP for East Kilbride and Strathaven, sought assurances on addressing workforce capacity and retention issues at the base. She asked, “Will the Secretary of State reassure the House that he is working with the Scottish Government to address the capacity and retention issues at the base, and that the Scottish Government are engaging positively on the industrial defence strategy?”
Responding, Defence Minister Luke Pollard spoke on the collaborative nature of maintaining national security. He stated, “Clyde is an important base for our national security. It is one of our critical military assets, and we work closely on it, not just with the Scottish Government and local councils, but across the entirety of Government.”
Pollard further explained the broader approach being taken, noting, “The success of our defence does not rely just on the actions and decisions of the Ministry of Defence; it is a whole-of-Government approach that keeps our nation safe. In these more difficult times, we will ask for more of a whole-of-Government approach to ensure that the men and women of our fighting forces, and the civilians who support them, have what they need to keep our nation safe.”
Meanwhile, Suella Braverman, Conservative MP for Fareham and Waterlooville, raised concerns over national security risks associated with the proposed AQUIND interconnector—a submarine power cable connecting France and England, set to pass through her constituency. Braverman highlighted the Ministry of Defence’s concerns, asking, “Does the Minister agree that we cannot do anything to jeopardise our national security, and will he formally lodge an objection with the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, who will consider the proposal?”
Pollard acknowledged her concerns and noted previous similar issues raised by other MPs, including Portsmouth South MP Stephen Morgan. He responded, “If the right hon. Lady writes to me about that, I will be happy to meet her to discuss it further.”
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