Defence in Scotland

Scottish Affairs Committee Closed Inquiry
Opened: 30 Jul 2021 Closed: 17 Jan 2024 Parliament page
Inquiry series The Committee has launched an inquiry series into Defence in Scotland. This began with an inquiry into the military personnel and military estate landscape in Scotland, and continues with ongoing inquiries into military shipbuilding in Scotland and Defence in the North Atlantic and the High North. The North … Read more
43 Recommendations
101 Conclusions
3 Reports
13 Oral sessions
2 Letters
20 Events
Activity timeline 28 events
18 Oct
2023
Report published
21 Jul
2023
Report published
10 Jul
2023
Formal meeting (private meeting) · Room 5, Palace of Westminster
5 Jun
2023
Oral evidence
24 Apr
2023
Oral evidence
6 Apr
2023
Report published
6 Apr
2023
Correspondence
27 Mar
2023
Oral evidence
6 Mar
2023
Oral evidence
7 Feb
2023
Correspondence
27 Jan
2023
Report published
6 Dec
2022
Oral evidence
Oral evidence sessions 13 sessions
5 Jun 2023
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Brigadier Chris Ordway · Ministry of Defence Clare Cameron · Ministry of Defence Rt Hon James Heappey · Ministry of Defence
24 Apr 2023
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Dr Adam Bower · University of St Andrews Professor Iain Woodhouse · University of Edinburgh Professor Jacques Hartmann · University of Dundee
27 Mar 2023
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His Excellency Sturla Sigurjónsson · Icelandic Embassy His Excellency Wegger Christian Strømmen · Norwegian Embassy
6 Mar 2023
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Dr Duncan Depledge · Loughborough University Dr Marc DeVore · University of St Andrews Dr Rowan Allport · Human Security Centre
6 Dec 2022
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Rear Admiral Rex Cox · Ministry of Defence Rt Hon Ben Wallace · Ministry of Defence Vice Admiral Paul Marshall CBE · Ministry of Defence
14 Nov 2022
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Hans Pung · RAND Europe Professor Keith Hartley · University of York
5 Sep 2022
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Ben Carpenter Merritt · Babcock Gordon McGuinness · Skills Development Scotland Ivan McKee MSP · Scottish Government Professor John Howie MBE · Babcock International Rory McGregor · Scottish Government Scott McClelland · Scottish Government Sir Simon Lister · BAE Systems Naval Ships
12 Jul 2022
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Ben Carpenter Merritt · Babcock Ivan McKee MSP · Scottish Government Oliver Waghorn · BAE Systems Professor John Howie MBE · Babcock International Sir Simon Lister · BAE Systems Naval Ships
13 Jun 2022
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Ian Waddell · The Confederation of Shipbuilding and Engineering Unions (CSEU) Kevin Craven · ADS Group - Aerospace, Defence, Security & Space Richard Powell OBE · Society of Maritime Industries (SMI)
21 Mar 2022
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Damian Parmenter CBE · Ministry of Defence David Brewer · Defence Infrastructure Organisation Sherin Aminossehe · Ministry of Defence The Baroness Goldie DL · Ministry of Defence
7 Mar 2022
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Councillor Rod Cavanagh · Fife Council Fergus Murray · Argyll and Bute Council Keith Brown MSP · Scottish Government Kevin McGowan · Scottish Government Provost Peter Smaill · Midlothian Council Rhona Gunn · Moray Council Rory McGregor · Scottish Government
21 Feb 2022
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Dr Hina Khan · Spire Global Limited Dr Suzanne Costello · MCS Limited Jamie Mincher · Glenalmond Group John Howie MBE · Babcock Kevin Craven · ADS Group - Aerospace, Defence, Security & Space Oliver Waghorn · BAE Systems Stephen McCann · Thales
31 Jan 2022
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Collette Musgrave · Army Families Federation Lieutenant General (retd) Sir Andrew Gregory KBE CB DL · SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity Maria Lyle · RAF Families Federation Professor Phillips O'Brien · University of St Andrews Professor Trevor Taylor · Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) Sarah Clewes · Naval Families Federation
Recommendations & Conclusions
144 results
1 Conclusion
First Report - Defence in Scotland…
Scotland is experiencing a new era of confidence and investment in the defence sector.
Scotland is experiencing a new era of confidence and investment in the defence sector. We welcome the MOD’s clear commitment to Scotland, shown, for example, by making it home to the UK’s submarine service, the new fleets of P8 Maritime … Read more
Scotland Office
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2 Conclusion
First Report - Defence in Scotland…
We welcome the increased military capabilities the MOD is gaining in Scotland, especially in light...
We welcome the increased military capabilities the MOD is gaining in Scotland, especially in light of ongoing increases in Russian aggression, and the importance that Scotland’s military capabilities play in strengthening the UK’s international alliances, such as NATO. Read more
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3 Conclusion
First Report - Defence in Scotland…
We note that the 2014 commitment to increase the number of Regular Armed Forces personnel...
We note that the 2014 commitment to increase the number of Regular Armed Forces personnel has been superseded by changing strategic priorities. We welcome the 2021 Future Soldier programme to increase the number of battalions in Scotland and that Scotland … Read more
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4 Conclusion
First Report - Defence in Scotland…
We welcome the MOD’s high level of spending with Scottish industry (around 10% of total...
We welcome the MOD’s high level of spending with Scottish industry (around 10% of total spending with industry) but are concerned that this spending is very heavily skewed towards major international prime contractors rather than SMEs. This is illustrated by … Read more
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5 Recommendation
First Report - Defence in Scotland…
The MOD should, with the assistance of the Scotland Office, initiate a culture change process...
The MOD should, with the assistance of the Scotland Office, initiate a culture change process within its own ranks, and in its prime contractors, that addresses perceptions of engrained hesitancy towards working with SMEs in Scotland, with a view to … Read more
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6 Conclusion
First Report - Defence in Scotland…
The military shipbuilding sector provides an important pipeline of highly skilled jobs for Scottish industry.
The military shipbuilding sector provides an important pipeline of highly skilled jobs for Scottish industry. While current Royal Navy Type 26 and Type 31 orders are very welcome, the future of the sector is dependent on favourable UK Government policies … Read more
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7 Recommendation
First Report - Defence in Scotland…
The UK Government should clarify definitively its position on whether current policies potentially allow for...
The UK Government should clarify definitively its position on whether current policies potentially allow for Royal Navy warships (such as destroyers, frigates and fleet solid support ships) to be procured and/or built overseas. If this potential exists—which could have a … Read more
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8 Conclusion
First Report - Defence in Scotland…
MOD base closures, base expansions, speculation on base closures and reversals/ changes in basing decisions...
MOD base closures, base expansions, speculation on base closures and reversals/ changes in basing decisions can all have major consequences for local communities in Scotland. All of the local authorities we heard from—regardless of whether they were facing MOD increases … Read more
Scotland Office
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9 Recommendation
First Report - Defence in Scotland…
The formal partnership arrangement between the MOD and Argyll and Bute Council has been a...
The formal partnership arrangement between the MOD and Argyll and Bute Council has been a great success and should be seen as a model for MOD interactions with Scottish local authorities. The MOD and relevant local authorities in Scotland should … Read more
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10 Recommendation
First Report - Defence in Scotland…
The MOD should intensify its collaboration efforts with all Scottish local authorities facing base closures...
The MOD should intensify its collaboration efforts with all Scottish local authorities facing base closures or base expansions, and engage with them at earlier stages in those processes. The MOD should also work with Scottish local authorities to jointly produce, … Read more
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11 Conclusion
First Report - Defence in Scotland…
While defence is wholly reserved to the UK Government, MOD decisions on military basing nonetheless...
While defence is wholly reserved to the UK Government, MOD decisions on military basing nonetheless have significant implications for areas of devolved competence, such as child education, healthcare and housing.
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12 Recommendation
First Report - Defence in Scotland…
MOD engagement processes on military basing decisions currently take place predominantly between the MOD and...
MOD engagement processes on military basing decisions currently take place predominantly between the MOD and affected local authorities and health boards. While this approach might work in England, in Scotland an adapted approach is needed in order to recognise the … Read more
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13 Recommendation
First Report - Defence in Scotland…
The MOD should increase its efforts to collaborate with the Scottish Government on basing decisions.
The MOD should increase its efforts to collaborate with the Scottish Government on basing decisions. This would facilitate improved information sharing, in both directions—for example, in relation to future basing intentions and the likely impact on local communities. Read more
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14 Recommendation
First Report - Defence in Scotland…
The Scottish Government must commit to properly funding local authorities and health boards local to...
The Scottish Government must commit to properly funding local authorities and health boards local to military bases to ensure there is sufficient provision in place. This was not the case for dental and maternity services for military families in Moray. … Read more
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15 Recommendation
First Report - Defence in Scotland…
While improvements have been made in this area—for example the Scottish Government’s ‘Welcome to Scotland’...
While improvements have been made in this area—for example the Scottish Government’s ‘Welcome to Scotland’ guide—there is scope for the MOD to be more proactive in the information it routinely shares with Armed Forces personnel and their families when they … Read more
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16 Recommendation
First Report - Defence in Scotland…
The MOD should conduct a review of the formats and quality of information it proactively...
The MOD should conduct a review of the formats and quality of information it proactively and routinely shares with all Armed Forces personnel and their families when they move to bases in Scotland, and from Scotland. The Scottish Government should … Read more
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17 Recommendation
First Report - Defence in Scotland…
The UK Government should accelerate work with relevant responsible bodies across the UK to reduce...
The UK Government should accelerate work with relevant responsible bodies across the UK to reduce barriers that military spouses and partners face when attempting to transfer their professional qualifications—for example, teaching qualifications— between UK nations. In line with the Armed … Read more
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18 Recommendation
First Report - Defence in Scotland…
We welcome the MOD’s annual payment to 7,000 Armed Forces personnel in Scotland.
We welcome the MOD’s annual payment to 7,000 Armed Forces personnel in Scotland. However, the Scottish Government should consider an exemption from the extra income tax in Scotland, and for the spouses of Armed Forces personnel. (Paragraph 94) 38 Defence … Read more
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1 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
The UK Government’s approach to procuring warships has shifted in recent years, and it is...
The UK Government’s approach to procuring warships has shifted in recent years, and it is no longer the default position that warships will be designed and built fully in the UK, which was of concern to some in the Scottish … Read more
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2 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
If bids from Scottish yards are to be fairly compared with those of their international...
If bids from Scottish yards are to be fairly compared with those of their international competitors, this process should be based on a full analysis of their respective benefits, including the benefits to the local economy and in additional tax … Read more
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3 Recommendation
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
In its response to this report, the UK Government should set out what work it...
In its response to this report, the UK Government should set out what work it did, in preparing the National Shipbuilding Strategy Refresh, to estimate and measure the benefits of procuring ships domestically for the Scottish economy and the wider … Read more
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4 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
The decision to award the Fleet Solid Support (FSS) ships to the international consortium Team...
The decision to award the Fleet Solid Support (FSS) ships to the international consortium Team Resolute is an example of a shift in the UK Government’s approach to warship procurement. We note that the UK Government chose the Team Resolute … Read more
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5 Recommendation
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
The UK Government should set out its reasoning for selecting Team Resolute as the preferred...
The UK Government should set out its reasoning for selecting Team Resolute as the preferred bidder for building the new order of Fleet Solid Support ships. Specifically, it should confirm whether the bid from Team Resolute offered the lowest price … Read more
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6 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
The Secretary of State told us that Team UK’s bid for the Fleet Solid Support...
The Secretary of State told us that Team UK’s bid for the Fleet Solid Support contract was “non-compliant” with the terms of the competition but did not give further details. We would welcome further information to help understand the Government’s … Read more
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7 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
In its response to this report, the UK Government should confirm on what date it...
In its response to this report, the UK Government should confirm on what date it determined that Team UK’s bid for the Fleet Solid Support ships contract was non- compliant with the terms of the competition, what work was done … Read more
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8 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
The export of the Type 26 and Type 31 design licences is a great success...
The export of the Type 26 and Type 31 design licences is a great success story for the Scottish shipbuilding industry, and we are confident that further exports will follow. At the same time, export opportunities cannot be depended upon … Read more
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9 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
The role of exports of military ships/design licences in the National Shipbuilding Strategy should be...
The role of exports of military ships/design licences in the National Shipbuilding Strategy should be to supplement, and not to replace, domestic demand. The UK Government should be prepared to use shipbuilding contracts strategically to sustain shipbuilding capacity in Scotland … Read more
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10 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
The creation of the National Shipbuilding Office is a welcome development that can bring greater...
The creation of the National Shipbuilding Office is a welcome development that can bring greater coherence to shipbuilding planning. At the same time, we note that the NSO does not have formal powers and will therefore rely on its ability … Read more
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11 Recommendation
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
The UK Government should carry out and lay before Parliament a formal evaluation of the...
The UK Government should carry out and lay before Parliament a formal evaluation of the contribution of the National Shipbuilding Office after two years, and again after five and ten years, to assess whether it has succeeded in driving better … Read more
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12 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
The establishment of a National Shipbuilding Office hub in Edinburgh provides a welcome link to...
The establishment of a National Shipbuilding Office hub in Edinburgh provides a welcome link to Scottish shipbuilders.
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13 Recommendation
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
To enhance its relationships with the Scottish shipbuilding sector, the National Shipbuilding Office should, by...
To enhance its relationships with the Scottish shipbuilding sector, the National Shipbuilding Office should, by the end of 2023, establish a permanent staff presence in its Edinburgh hub, as the MoD and NSO have indicated. (Paragraph 40) The shipbuilding pipeline Read more
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14 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
We wish to underline the importance to Scottish shipyards of maintaining a dependable ‘drumbeat’ of...
We wish to underline the importance to Scottish shipyards of maintaining a dependable ‘drumbeat’ of orders to allow them to invest and grow. The days of ‘feast and famine’ must not return. The creation of the National Shipbuilding Strategy suggests … Read more
Scotland Office
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15 Recommendation
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
The UK Government should provide greater clarity about the work that will fill the whole...
The UK Government should provide greater clarity about the work that will fill the whole of the 30-year shipbuilding pipeline into the 2030s and 2040s. It is of course difficult to calculate precise military needs beyond 2050. However, the UK … Read more
Scotland Office
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16 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
Recent developments have introduced uncertainty about some orders in the pipeline and whether it sets...
Recent developments have introduced uncertainty about some orders in the pipeline and whether it sets out a clear ‘drumbeat’ of orders needed to sustain Scottish shipyards. The Fleet Solid Support Ships and the National Flagship are two examples. There has … Read more
Scotland Office
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17 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
In its response to this report, and in its annual shipbuilding update to the Defence...
In its response to this report, and in its annual shipbuilding update to the Defence Select Committee, the UK Government should provide an update on the current status of the military shipbuilding pipeline for Scottish naval yards. In particular, it … Read more
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18 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
The award of the contract to build five additional Type 26 frigates to BAE Systems...
The award of the contract to build five additional Type 26 frigates to BAE Systems is welcome news for Scottish shipbuilding, and importantly continues the shipbuilding ‘drumbeat’ into the medium-term. We note that, partly as a consequence of global challenges, … Read more
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19 Recommendation
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
Given the ongoing global uncertainties we ask the UK Government to provide annual updates on...
Given the ongoing global uncertainties we ask the UK Government to provide annual updates on the construction of the Type 26 vessels to both Houses of Parliament. We note that the Defence Select Committee has made a similar recommendation, but … Read more
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20 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
The decision to select Team Resolute bid as the preferred bidder for the upcoming order...
The decision to select Team Resolute bid as the preferred bidder for the upcoming order of Fleet Solid Support ships could create a potential gap in the workstream for the Scottish warship industry.
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21 Recommendation
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
In its response, the UK Government should set out how much capacity it expects to...
In its response, the UK Government should set out how much capacity it expects to now be available in the Scottish warship industry in each of the years between 2025– 2032 as a result of the decision to select Team … Read more
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22 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
We note that the MOD did not agree with the concerns expressed by Scottish SMEs...
We note that the MOD did not agree with the concerns expressed by Scottish SMEs during our Defence in Scotland: military landscape inquiry about the difficulties they experienced engaging with the Ministry. The steps the UK Government outlined in its … Read more
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23 Recommendation
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
The Ministry of Defence should, in line with its commitments in the National Shipbuilding Strategy...
The Ministry of Defence should, in line with its commitments in the National Shipbuilding Strategy and the UK Government’s commitments in Maritime 2050, work specifically to develop shipbuilding clusters in Scotland. In responding to this report, the UK Government should … Read more
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24 Recommendation
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
The Ministry of Defence should report back to us at the end of the financial...
The Ministry of Defence should report back to us at the end of the financial year to confirm whether it met its target of spending 25 per cent of its procurement spend with SMEs. In addition, it should provide an … Read more
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25 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
We heard that including a social value component in shipbuilding contracts can help deliver benefits...
We heard that including a social value component in shipbuilding contracts can help deliver benefits for the wider economy and in shipbuilding communities. However, there are challenges in measuring how effectively those commitments are being delivered on. Read more
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26 Recommendation
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
The MOD should set out how it evaluates social value in competitions, how it measures...
The MOD should set out how it evaluates social value in competitions, how it measures the delivery of social value in the contracts it negotiates, and how it holds contractors accountable to ensure they meet those targets. It should also, … Read more
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27 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
We heard that historically the Ministry of Defence’s understanding of shipbuilding supply chains had been...
We heard that historically the Ministry of Defence’s understanding of shipbuilding supply chains had been a vulnerability. The Secretary of State told us this had subsequently improved. The new Defence Supply Chain Strategy’s emphasis on building resilience in supply chains … Read more
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28 Recommendation
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
The Ministry of Defence should publish data on the composition of shipbuilding supply chains, to...
The Ministry of Defence should publish data on the composition of shipbuilding supply chains, to assist understanding of how the UK shipbuilding industry is structured. This should include regional breakdowns so that the extent of local supply chains and industry … Read more
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29 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
We heard evidence that the MOD and the Scottish Government could both have a better...
We heard evidence that the MOD and the Scottish Government could both have a better understanding of the skills profile of the shipbuilding workforce. This makes workforce planning for a highly advanced sector like military shipbuilding more challenging. Read more
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30 Recommendation
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
Building on the work of the UK Shipbuilding Skills Taskforce, the Ministry of Defence should...
Building on the work of the UK Shipbuilding Skills Taskforce, the Ministry of Defence should commission regular research to develop and keep up to date its understanding of the current and future skills profile of the shipbuilding workforce, and the … Read more
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31 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
The creation of the UK Shipbuilding Skills Taskforce shows a welcome recognition of the importance...
The creation of the UK Shipbuilding Skills Taskforce shows a welcome recognition of the importance of long-term workforce planning in shipbuilding. This kind of planning is essential if Scottish yards are to have the highly-skilled workers they need to thrive … Read more
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32 Recommendation
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
We invite the UK Shipbuilding Taskforce, together with UK Government Ministers, to give oral evidence...
We invite the UK Shipbuilding Taskforce, together with UK Government Ministers, to give oral evidence to the Committee when the UKSST’s report is published in autumn 2023, so that its findings can be discussed further and priorities identified to ensure … Read more
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33 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
We wish to underline that the additional complexity of building warships demands highly specialised skills...
We wish to underline that the additional complexity of building warships demands highly specialised skills and knowledge, and that these will need to be updated and refreshed as warship design and manufacture evolves.
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34 Recommendation
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
The UK Shipbuilding Skills Taskforce’s report should identify the skills demands of the warship industry...
The UK Shipbuilding Skills Taskforce’s report should identify the skills demands of the warship industry specifically, as well as steps that can be taken to meet those needs.
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35 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
Skills policies will best support the shipbuilding industry if the UK and Scottish Governments’ approaches...
Skills policies will best support the shipbuilding industry if the UK and Scottish Governments’ approaches complement each other. For this to happen, education policymakers in Scotland will need to be able to receive clear signals about the skills needs of … Read more
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36 Recommendation
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
The UK Shipbuilding Skills Taskforce should have a specific objective to encourage coordination between different...
The UK Shipbuilding Skills Taskforce should have a specific objective to encourage coordination between different jurisdictions in the UK, so that a common effort can be made towards supporting shipbuilding in Scotland and other parts of the UK. (Paragraph 98) … Read more
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37 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
The creation of the National Shipbuilding Office is a welcome development that can bring greater...
The creation of the National Shipbuilding Office is a welcome development that can bring greater coherence to shipbuilding planning. At the same time, we note that the NSO does not have formal powers and will therefore rely on its ability … Read more
Scotland Office
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38 Recommendation
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
The UK Government should carry out and lay before Parliament a formal evaluation of the...
The UK Government should carry out and lay before Parliament a formal evaluation of the contribution of the National Shipbuilding Office after two years, and again after five and ten years, to assess whether it has succeeded in driving better … Read more
Scotland Office
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39 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
The establishment of a National Shipbuilding Office hub in Edinburgh provides a welcome link to...
The establishment of a National Shipbuilding Office hub in Edinburgh provides a welcome link to Scottish shipbuilders.
Scotland Office
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40 Recommendation
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
To enhance its relationships with the Scottish shipbuilding sector, the National Shipbuilding Office should, by...
To enhance its relationships with the Scottish shipbuilding sector, the National Shipbuilding Office should, by the end of 2023, establish a permanent staff presence in its Edinburgh hub, as the MOD and NSO have indicated. Defence in Scotland: military shipbuilding … Read more
Scotland Office
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41 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
A theme we heard repeatedly emphasised during our inquiry was the importance of a regular...
A theme we heard repeatedly emphasised during our inquiry was the importance of a regular ‘drumbeat’ of orders to provide a consistent workload that could help industry plan for the future. Stakeholders from all parts of the sector stressed that … Read more
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42 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
Stakeholders also emphasised that a steady ‘drumbeat’ could underpin future investment that would make the...
Stakeholders also emphasised that a steady ‘drumbeat’ could underpin future investment that would make the industry more productive in the future. Mr Waddell told us: It is a very simple equation. If businesses are faced with uncertainty, they do not … Read more
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43 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
In written evidence, the UK Defence Journal set out their understanding of the shipbuilding pipeline...
In written evidence, the UK Defence Journal set out their understanding of the shipbuilding pipeline for BAE Systems and Babcock as of April 2022 (Table 1). 64 BAE Systems (DIS0030) 65 UK Defence Journal (DIS0022) 66 Q2 67 Q3 68 … Read more
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44 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
In his foreword to the National Shipbuilding Strategy Refresh, the Defence Secretary says the UK...
In his foreword to the National Shipbuilding Strategy Refresh, the Defence Secretary says the UK Government “will give industry a much clearer demand signal about what we are trying to achieve with our procurement programmes” and that for the first … Read more
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45 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
Some parts of this pipeline have since been confirmed, such as the confirmation that the...
Some parts of this pipeline have since been confirmed, such as the confirmation that the second batch of Type 26 frigates would be built by BAE at Govan (considered in more detail later in this chapter).73 However, the pipeline is … Read more
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46 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
Other elements of the pipeline face questions, including the Type 32 frigates, which under the...
Other elements of the pipeline face questions, including the Type 32 frigates, which under the pipeline suggested above would be built by Babcock at Rosyth from 2028 into the late 2030s. A National Audit Office report in November noted that, … Read more
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47 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
In addition to uncertainty around the Type 32 frigate, the selection of Team Resolute as...
In addition to uncertainty around the Type 32 frigate, the selection of Team Resolute as the preferred bidder for the Fleet Solid Support ships contract (as discussed in paragraphs 20–27 above) also means that the FSS vessels (considered later in … Read more
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48 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
Representatives from the shipbuilding industry told us that having sight of upcoming shipbuilding projects over...
Representatives from the shipbuilding industry told us that having sight of upcoming shipbuilding projects over the coming decades was helpful, but that it was less clear how this translated into a drumbeat of work for shipyards. Ian Waddell of the … Read more
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49 Recommendation
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
In its December 2021 report “We’re going to need a bigger Navy”, the Defence Select...
In its December 2021 report “We’re going to need a bigger Navy”, the Defence Select Committee recommended that the Ministry of Defence provide Parliament with an annual shipbuilding plan, including the number of ships planned to enter and leave service … Read more
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50 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
We heard differing views over how decisions about how Scotland’s constitutional future might affect the...
We heard differing views over how decisions about how Scotland’s constitutional future might affect the shipbuilding pipeline. Professor Keith Hartley told us that “at the moment, the industry’s future depends on the Royal Navy. Without the Royal Navy, you would … Read more
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51 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
We wish to underline the importance to Scottish shipyards of maintaining a dependable ‘drumbeat’ of...
We wish to underline the importance to Scottish shipyards of maintaining a dependable ‘drumbeat’ of orders to allow them to invest and grow. The days of ‘feast and famine’ must not return. The creation of the National Shipbuilding Strategy suggests … Read more
Scotland Office
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52 Recommendation
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
The UK Government should provide greater clarity about the work that will fill the whole...
The UK Government should provide greater clarity about the work that will fill the whole of the 30-year shipbuilding pipeline into the 2030s and 2040s. It is of course difficult to calculate precise military needs beyond 2050. However, the UK … Read more
Scotland Office
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53 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
Recent developments have introduced uncertainty about some orders in the pipeline and whether it sets...
Recent developments have introduced uncertainty about some orders in the pipeline and whether it sets out a clear ‘drumbeat’ of orders needed to sustain Scottish shipyards. The Fleet Solid Support Ships and the National Flagship are two examples. There has … Read more
Scotland Office
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54 Recommendation
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
In its response to this report, and in its annual shipbuilding update to the Defence...
In its response to this report, and in its annual shipbuilding update to the Defence Select Committee, the UK Government should provide an update on the current status of the military shipbuilding pipeline for Scottish naval yards. In particular, it … Read more
Scotland Office
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55 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
During our inquiry the Prime Minister announced the decision that the second batch of Type...
During our inquiry the Prime Minister announced the decision that the second batch of Type 26 anti-submarine warfare frigates would be built by BAE in Glasgow.90 This means that, in addition to the three Type 26 ships already being built, … Read more
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56 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
Prior to the announcement of the Batch 2 contract, the Defence Secretary informed the House...
Prior to the announcement of the Batch 2 contract, the Defence Secretary informed the House in a Written Ministerial Statement that there would be a 12-month delay to the Batch 1 frigates becoming operational, from October 2027 to October 2028. … Read more
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57 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
As noted in the section above, the Defence Select Committee has recommended that the Ministry...
As noted in the section above, the Defence Select Committee has recommended that the Ministry of Defence provides an annual shipbuilding update to Parliament, and annual updates on particular programmes including the Type 26 frigate. No such update has yet … Read more
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58 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
The award of the contract to build five additional Type 26 frigates to BAE Systems...
The award of the contract to build five additional Type 26 frigates to BAE Systems is welcome news for Scottish shipbuilding, and importantly continues the shipbuilding ‘drumbeat’ into the medium-term. We note that, partly as a consequence of global challenges, … Read more
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59 Recommendation
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
Given the ongoing global uncertainties we ask the UK Government to provide annual updates on...
Given the ongoing global uncertainties we ask the UK Government to provide annual updates on the construction of the Type 26 vessels to both Houses of Parliament. We note that the Defence Select Committee has made a similar recommendation, but … Read more
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60 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
As discussed in Chapter 2, in November 2022 the MOD took the decision to select...
As discussed in Chapter 2, in November 2022 the MOD took the decision to select Team Resolute as the preferred bidder for the Fleet Solid Support ships contract. The MOD did not select a bid from Team UK, a consortium … Read more
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61 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
Sir Simon Lister of BAE told us that were the FSS vessels not to be...
Sir Simon Lister of BAE told us that were the FSS vessels not to be built in Scotland it would create a gap in the continuity of orders for workers in the Scottish warship industry, but added that this gap … Read more
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62 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
The decision to select Team Resolute bid as the preferred bidder for the upcoming order...
The decision to select Team Resolute bid as the preferred bidder for the upcoming order of Fleet Solid Support ships could create a potential gap in the workstream for the Scottish warship industry.
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63 Recommendation
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
In its response, the UK Government should set out how much capacity it expects to...
In its response, the UK Government should set out how much capacity it expects to now be available in the Scottish warship industry in each of the years between 2025– 2032 as a result of the decision to select Team … Read more
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64 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
In addition to its large shipyards, Scotland is home to a large number of Small...
In addition to its large shipyards, Scotland is home to a large number of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) which contribute to Scottish shipbuilding and to the wider defence sector. An SME is defined as a company with annual turnover … Read more
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65 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
The UK defence sector, and the shipbuilding industry in particular, is dominated by a relatively...
The UK defence sector, and the shipbuilding industry in particular, is dominated by a relatively small number of major companies. This is partly as a result of significant rationalisation and consolidation over the years, the highly specialised nature of its … Read more
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66 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
Only a small proportion of MOD spending with SMEs goes to Scottish SMEs, however.
Only a small proportion of MOD spending with SMEs goes to Scottish SMEs, however. During our previous defence inquiry into Scotland’s military landscape, the MOD told us that Scottish SMEs accounted for just over £25 million of the MOD’s total … Read more
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67 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
The MOD’s SME Action Plan acknowledges some of the challenges SMEs face.
The MOD’s SME Action Plan acknowledges some of the challenges SMEs face. The Plan notes that “improving access to opportunities for SMEs also requires support from MOD as the end customer”109 and proposes a number of actions aimed at improving … Read more
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68 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
We heard that geographically targeted measures could be an effective way of involving SMEs in...
We heard that geographically targeted measures could be an effective way of involving SMEs in defence supply chains, such as fostering the growth of industry clusters. Hans Pung of RAND Europe, when asked what the UK Government could do to … Read more
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69 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
We note that the MOD did not agree with the concerns expressed by Scottish SMEs...
We note that the MOD did not agree with the concerns expressed by Scottish SMEs during our Defence in Scotland: military landscape inquiry about the difficulties they experienced engaging with the Ministry. The steps the UK Government outlined in its … Read more
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70 Recommendation
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
The Ministry of Defence should, in line with its commitments in the National Shipbuilding Strategy...
The Ministry of Defence should, in line with its commitments in the National Shipbuilding Strategy and the UK Government’s commitments in Maritime 2050, work specifically to develop shipbuilding clusters in Scotland. In responding to this report, the UK Government should … Read more
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71 Recommendation
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
The Ministry of Defence should report back to us at the end of the financial...
The Ministry of Defence should report back to us at the end of the financial year to confirm whether it met its target of spending 25 per cent of its procurement spend with SMEs. In addition, it should provide an … Read more
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72 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
Another tool the MOD uses to attempt to deliver benefits for local economies and communities...
Another tool the MOD uses to attempt to deliver benefits for local economies and communities is through using social value criteria to evaluate contracts. The MOD has a minimum 20 per cent weighting for social value. which will be applied … Read more
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73 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
We heard there was some uncertainty over how MOD assessed social value, and how delivery...
We heard there was some uncertainty over how MOD assessed social value, and how delivery of social value would be measured. Industry representatives told the Defence Committee that social value was “probably the biggest factor in deciding who will win … Read more
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74 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
We heard that including a social value component in shipbuilding contracts can help deliver benefits...
We heard that including a social value component in shipbuilding contracts can help deliver benefits for the wider economy and in shipbuilding communities. However, there are challenges in measuring how effectively those commitments are being delivered on. Read more
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75 Recommendation
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
The MOD should set out how it evaluates social value in competitions, how it measures...
The MOD should set out how it evaluates social value in competitions, how it measures the delivery of social value in the contracts it negotiates, and how it holds contractors accountable to ensure they meet those targets. It should also, … Read more
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76 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
Professor Keith Hartley of the University of York told us that there was a limited...
Professor Keith Hartley of the University of York told us that there was a limited understanding of shipbuilding supply chains: The problem we face in the Scottish shipbuilding industry is that, although we know the major primes like BAE and … Read more
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77 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
The Defence Secretary acknowledged that the MOD’s understanding of supply chains had been “one of...
The Defence Secretary acknowledged that the MOD’s understanding of supply chains had been “one of our vulnerabilities” in the past, but said that since then “there has been a real drive across Government, and certainly in our department, to map … Read more
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78 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
We heard that historically the Ministry of Defence’s understanding of shipbuilding supply chains had been...
We heard that historically the Ministry of Defence’s understanding of shipbuilding supply chains had been a vulnerability. The Secretary of State told us this had subsequently improved. The new Defence Supply Chain Strategy’s emphasis on building resilience in supply chains … Read more
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79 Recommendation
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
The Ministry of Defence should publish data on the composition of shipbuilding supply chains, to...
The Ministry of Defence should publish data on the composition of shipbuilding supply chains, to assist understanding of how the UK shipbuilding industry is structured. This should include regional breakdowns so that the extent of local supply chains and industry … Read more
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80 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
A number of contributors to our inquiry highlighted that shipbuilding is an industry that requires...
A number of contributors to our inquiry highlighted that shipbuilding is an industry that requires a highly trained and specialised workforce.127 This is particularly true in the warship industry because warships are built to more demanding specifications: they must be … Read more
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81 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
As well as employing large numbers of skilled workers in its shipyards, Scotland also trains...
As well as employing large numbers of skilled workers in its shipyards, Scotland also trains highly specialised workers at its higher and further education institutions, many of which go on to work for BAE and Babcock. Among the institutions which … Read more
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82 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
The Confederation of Shipbuilding and Engineering Unions said workforce recruitment, skills and retention were “the...
The Confederation of Shipbuilding and Engineering Unions said workforce recruitment, skills and retention were “the biggest challenge for the industry and the enterprise collectively.”129 City of Glasgow College, one of the biggest trainers of Scottish shipbuilders, agreed that “Scottish shipbuilding … Read more
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83 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
A further challenge relates to retaining existing staff.
A further challenge relates to retaining existing staff. Witnesses told us that uncertainty about future workloads could lead to staff leaving their roles. John Howie of Babcock said: “There are inherent inefficiencies in ordering a batch of ships and then … Read more
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84 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
Witnesses emphasised the importance of a reliable drumbeat of work to help them recruit and...
Witnesses emphasised the importance of a reliable drumbeat of work to help them recruit and retain staff. City of Glasgow College called for “a clearer demand signal to trigger both the public and private sector investment needed to expand the … Read more
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85 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
Another challenge identified by contributors related to retraining and lifelong learning for the existing workforce.
Another challenge identified by contributors related to retraining and lifelong learning for the existing workforce. City of Glasgow College told us “a skilled workforce which is regularly upskilled and reskilled across a lifetime is vital to sustaining a world-class shipbuilding … Read more
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86 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
Some contributors to our inquiry argued that addressing skills challenges was made more difficult by...
Some contributors to our inquiry argued that addressing skills challenges was made more difficult by a lack of data on the skills composition of the UK workforce. Professor Keith Hartley told us that while the UK has “decent data on … Read more
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87 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
We heard evidence that the MOD and the Scottish Government could both have a better...
We heard evidence that the MOD and the Scottish Government could both have a better understanding of the skills profile of the shipbuilding workforce. This makes workforce planning for a highly advanced sector like military shipbuilding more challenging. Read more
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88 Recommendation
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
Building on the work of the UK Shipbuilding Skills Taskforce, the Ministry of Defence should...
Building on the work of the UK Shipbuilding Skills Taskforce, the Ministry of Defence should commission regular research to develop and keep up to date its understanding of the current and future skills profile of the shipbuilding workforce, and the … Read more
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89 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
The National Shipbuilding Strategy Refresh recognised the importance of skills as an issue, and in...
The National Shipbuilding Strategy Refresh recognised the importance of skills as an issue, and in response announced the establishment of a UK Shipbuilding Skills Taskforce (UKSST). The Taskforce is run by the Department for Education, working with the National Shipbuilding … Read more
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90 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
The National Shipbuilding Strategy Refresh implicitly recognises that the design and building of warships is...
The National Shipbuilding Strategy Refresh implicitly recognises that the design and building of warships is significantly more complex than for many other vessels, and includes warships as a discrete category when listing types of shipbuilding undertaken in the UK.149 It … Read more
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91 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
The creation of the UKSST was widely welcomed by contributors to our inquiry.152 John Howie...
The creation of the UKSST was widely welcomed by contributors to our inquiry.152 John Howie of Babcock described it as “a key example of…the longer term planning that is needed to ensure that we generate the next generation of the … Read more
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92 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
A complicating factor in the work of the Taskforce is the devolved nature of skills...
A complicating factor in the work of the Taskforce is the devolved nature of skills policy in parts of the UK, including in Scotland. Kevin Craven of ADS Group said “the devolved nature of the work involved means that co-ordination … Read more
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93 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
The creation of the UK Shipbuilding Skills Taskforce shows a welcome recognition of the importance...
The creation of the UK Shipbuilding Skills Taskforce shows a welcome recognition of the importance of long-term workforce planning in shipbuilding. This kind of planning is essential if Scottish yards are to have the highly-skilled workers they need to thrive … Read more
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94 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
We invite the UK Shipbuilding Taskforce, together with UK Government Ministers, to give oral evidence...
We invite the UK Shipbuilding Taskforce, together with UK Government Ministers, to give oral evidence to the Committee when the UKSST’s report is published in autumn 2023, so that its findings can be discussed further and priorities identified to ensure … Read more
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95 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
We wish to underline that the additional complexity of building warships demands highly specialised skills...
We wish to underline that the additional complexity of building warships demands highly specialised skills and knowledge, and that these will need to be updated and refreshed as warship design and manufacture evolves.
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96 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
The UK Shipbuilding Skills Taskforce’s report should identify the skills demands of the warship industry...
The UK Shipbuilding Skills Taskforce’s report should identify the skills demands of the warship industry specifically, as well as steps that can be taken to meet those needs.
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97 Conclusion
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
Skills policies will best support the shipbuilding industry if the UK and Scottish Governments’ approaches...
Skills policies will best support the shipbuilding industry if the UK and Scottish Governments’ approaches complement each other. For this to happen, education policymakers in Scotland will need to be able to receive clear signals about the skills needs of … Read more
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98 Recommendation
Fourth Report - Defence in Scotlan…
The UK Shipbuilding Skills Taskforce should have a specific objective to encourage coordination between different...
The UK Shipbuilding Skills Taskforce should have a specific objective to encourage coordination between different jurisdictions in the UK, so that a common effort can be made towards supporting shipbuilding in Scotland and other parts of the UK. Defence in … Read more
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1 Conclusion
Seventh Report - Defence in Scotla…
Scotland's geography and capabilities are critical for UK/NATO defence objectives.
The UK Government is clear that Scotland’s geography, and the capabilities located there, is critical to meeting the UK and NATO’s defence and security objectives in the North Atlantic and the High North.
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2 Conclusion
Seventh Report - Defence in Scotla…
North Atlantic and High North geopolitics evolving, requiring UK adaptation and resources.
The UK Government’s policy document, The UK’s Defence Contribution in the High North, adopts appropriate strategic priorities for the region. At the same time, the geopolitics of the North Atlantic and the High North are evolving and the UK will … Read more
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3 Conclusion
Seventh Report - Defence in Scotla…
Commit Ministry of Defence to updating Arctic defence strategy every five years.
The Ministry of Defence should commit to updating its Arctic defence strategy every five years, to reflect the strategic acceleration in the region and to bring it into line with the FCDO’s Arctic Strategy for the whole of Government, which … Read more
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4 Conclusion
Seventh Report - Defence in Scotla…
UK and NATO face new environmental and political challenges in the High North.
The UK and NATO face new challenges in the North Atlantic in the High North. In particular, the Arctic faces new environmental and political challenges which must be navigated carefully if the region is to remain one of high co-operation … Read more
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5 Recommendation
Seventh Report - Defence in Scotla…
Set out most recent assessment of evolving UK defence and security priorities in North Atlantic
The UK Government should continue to be proactive in considering how the UK’s defence and security priorities in the North Atlantic and the High North may change in the future, in response to the changing geopolitical context and the effects … Read more
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6 Conclusion
Seventh Report - Defence in Scotla…
Climate change creates new Royal Navy responsibilities from opening Arctic sea routes
Climate change is likely to lead to the opening of new sea routes due to the retreat of Arctic ice. While the overriding priority should be to minimise the effects of climate change, the UK Government must also be prepared … Read more
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7 Conclusion
Seventh Report - Defence in Scotla…
Consider new defence responsibilities from climate change and uphold UNCLOS principles
The UK Government should consider how the effects of climate change might create new defence and security responsibilities in the future, in particular for naval policing and search and rescue. The UK should also seek to promote and uphold the … Read more
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8 Conclusion
Seventh Report - Defence in Scotla…
Offshore and subsea critical infrastructure vulnerable to interference, lacking clear repair plan
Events like the sabotage of the Nord Stream pipeline have shown that Critical National Infrastructure that is based offshore or beneath the sea can be vulnerable to interference. This is a concern in the North Atlantic, where transatlantic cables are … Read more
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9 Conclusion
Seventh Report - Defence in Scotla…
Publish strategy for protecting offshore infrastructure, including deterrence and rapid repair plans
The UK Government should produce and publish a strategy for protecting offshore infrastructure. This should include a plan for how attempts by malign actors to interfere with Critical National Infrastructure can be deterred or prevented, and how damaged infrastructure can … Read more
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10 Recommendation
Seventh Report - Defence in Scotla…
Set out timeline for Multi-Role Ocean Surveillance Ships and confirm Scottish build
The UK Government should set out the timeline for the refitted Multi-Role Ocean Surveillance Ship, RFA Proteus, and the future purpose-built Multi-Role Ocean Surveillance Ship to come into service. It should state whether it is still the intention, as set … Read more
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11 Conclusion
Seventh Report - Defence in Scotla…
UK’s NATO and JEF roles evolving, creating new North Atlantic responsibilities
The UK’s role and responsibilities in NATO may evolve in response to changing geopolitics, including increasing tensions with Russia and the consequent accession of Finland and (as seems likely) Sweden to the alliance. This may entail new or changed responsibilities … Read more
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12 Recommendation
Seventh Report - Defence in Scotla…
Convene discussions with NATO and JEF allies on North Atlantic challenges and expanded role
We recommend that the UK Government convene discussions with its NATO and Joint Expeditionary Force allies about how these alliances should respond to new challenges in the North Atlantic and the High North, and be prepared to take an expanded … Read more
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13 Conclusion
Seventh Report - Defence in Scotla…
Relationships with Arctic allies essential for North Atlantic security objectives
The UK’s relationships with its Arctic allies are essential to meeting common security objectives in the North Atlantic and the High North. These relationships will become more important should the challenges in the region become more prominent.
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14 Conclusion
Seventh Report - Defence in Scotla…
Continue contributing to diplomacy in North Atlantic, considering dedicated Arctic ambassador
The UK should continue considering how it can best contribute to diplomacy and collaborative problem-solving in the North Atlantic and the High North. Actions it could take include stepping up its participation in existing fora where appropriate and considering the … Read more
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15 Conclusion
Seventh Report - Defence in Scotla…
P-8A Poseidon cooperation provides successful model for future defence partnerships.
Cooperation around the P-8A Poseidon Maritime Patrol Aircraft, which has enabled Norwegian aircraft to be maintained at RAF Lossiemouth, and RAF aircraft to be supported in Norway, has been a success, and provides a model for similar defence cooperation in … Read more
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16 Conclusion
Seventh Report - Defence in Scotla…
Pursue further direct bilateral defence cooperation opportunities with Arctic allies like Finland and Sweden.
Alongside its efforts to develop defence and security cooperation in the North Atlantic and the High North through multilateral institutions, the UK Government should pursue further opportunities for direct bilateral cooperation with Arctic allies, including new NATO members Finland and … Read more
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17 Conclusion
Seventh Report - Defence in Scotla…
Scotland's geography ensures vital role in UK and NATO North Atlantic defence.
Scotland’s geography means it will continue to play an important role in meeting UK and NATO defence and security objectives in the North Atlantic and the High North. This means that, should the situation in the region change, Scotland could … Read more
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18 Conclusion
Seventh Report - Defence in Scotla…
UK's asset projection from Scottish bases vital for North Atlantic defence strategy.
The UK’s ability to project assets into the North Atlantic and High North if required must be maintained, as this is key to both the UK and NATO’s defence strategy. Currently this capability is based primarily at HMNB Clyde and … Read more
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19 Conclusion
Seventh Report - Defence in Scotla…
Maintaining Faslane for nuclear deterrent recognised as crucial for UK and NATO.
The committee heard evidence during this inquiry of the need to maintain HM Naval Base Clyde as home to the Royal Navy’s nuclear-armed Vanguard 15 class submarines that form the UK’s Continuous At-Sea Deterrent, as well as the Astute Class … Read more
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20 Recommendation
Seventh Report - Defence in Scotla…
Set out scope for scaling up Scottish defence presence to meet North Atlantic obligations.
In its response to this report, the UK Government should set out what scope it considers for the defence presence in Scotland to be sufficiently scaled up to respond to a scenario where the UK has greater obligations in the … Read more
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21 Conclusion
Seventh Report - Defence in Scotla…
Doubts persist regarding sufficient UK aircraft for North Atlantic and High North presence.
RAF assets based in Scotland contribute to defence in the North Atlantic and the High North in a number of important ways, including surveillance, anti-submarine warfare and threat response by way of the Quick Reaction Alert jets stationed at RAF … Read more
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22 Conclusion
Seventh Report - Defence in Scotla…
Review sufficiency of P-8A, E7, and Typhoon aircraft for North Atlantic security demands.
In its response to this report, the UK Government should address the concerns raised in evidence both to this inquiry and to the Defence Committee over whether the number of P-8A, E7 and Typhoon aircraft is sufficient to provide the … Read more
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23 Conclusion
Seventh Report - Defence in Scotla…
UK possesses limited specialised cold weather capability for High North objectives.
The UK needs a clear sense of what kind of specialised cold weather capability it will need to meet its objectives in the High North. We heard that the UK currently has limited capability for operating in extremely cold environments. … Read more
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24 Conclusion
Seventh Report - Defence in Scotla…
Review cold weather capability needed for High North defence, focusing on Scotland-based assets.
The UK Government must review, and report to the House, the extent to which, now and in the future, what capability is needed to operate in extremely cold environments at the scale required to meet evolving defence and security objectives … Read more
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25 Conclusion
Seventh Report - Defence in Scotla…
Scotland's unique position offers significant advantages for space-based surveillance capabilities.
We heard that space-based capabilities provide numerous advantages for surveillance at high latitudes. Scotland, with its burgeoning space sector and a northerly location that is suitable for launch into polar orbits, is well-placed to take advantage of this opportunity. We … Read more
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26 Conclusion
Seventh Report - Defence in Scotla…
Specialised drone systems are essential for effective operations in extreme High North cold.
We heard that drones can provide an advantage in cold weather environments, but that not all drones were suited to operating in the extreme cold and that specialised systems might be needed to operate in the High North.
Scotland Office
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27 Conclusion
Seventh Report - Defence in Scotla…
Consider the contribution of drones and space technology to High North defence objectives.
As part of the review into cold-weather capability recommended above, the UK Government should consider what contribution a) drones and b) space technology should make to meeting defence and security objectives in the North Atlantic and the High North. Its … Read more
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28 Conclusion
Seventh Report - Defence in Scotla…
Maximise Scotland’s burgeoning space sector for High North defence capabilities and set measurable targets.
When developing and deploying new space-based technologies in support of defence objectives in the High North, the UK Government should make the most of Scotland’s innovative and rapidly growing space sector, and its geographical advantages as a base for launching … Read more
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Correspondence 2 letters
6 Apr 2023 From committee Letter to Rt Hon Ben Wallace MP, Secretary of State for Defence at Ministry of Defence following up to the Government response to Defence in Scotland: military shipbuilding Report, dated 5 April 2023
Parliament page
7 Feb 2023 To committee Letter from Rt Hon Ben Wallace MP, Secretary of State for Defence at Ministry of Defence following up from Defence in Scotland: Military shipbuilding on 6 December 2022, dated 30 January 2023
Parliament page