During the visit to Devon, Sir Michael revealed figures
showing the significant contribution Defence makes to the
region, with the Ministry of Defence spending billions of
pounds with industry and supporting one in 70 roles or
30,000 local jobs.
Defence Secretary Sir said:
Creating an economy that works for everyone means
investing and supporting jobs across the UK. Backed by
a rising defence budget, we spent more than £4 billion
with industry in the South West last year to help keep
Britain safe.
Our commitment to the future of defence in the south
west is enduring, a region that is vital to the Royal
Navy and for the many serving personnel that live and
work there.
I welcomed the opportunity to review with and others how
we can work together to ensure that the future use of
Chivenor in a decade’s time helps create jobs and
investment.
While at the base, the Defence Secretary met with
personnel from 24 Commando who have recently been engaged
in climatic training, including deploying to Belize on
exercise and a winter deployment to Norway. He also
awarded two Long Service and Good Conduct medals to 3
Commando’s Lance Corporal Kenny McBain and Staff Sergeant
Daniel Moseley, from the Army’s Royal Electrical and
Mechanical Engineers in recognition of their hard work
and 15 years of exemplary service.
24 Commando Royal Marines will remain in the South West
when they relocate from RM Chivenor by 2027 as part of
the Better Defence Estate strategy. The MOD is engaging
closely with local authorities and other interested
parties on the future of the base.
This visit allowed for further discussion with community
members to make sure the release of the site will bring
the best possible opportunities like jobs, housing and
economic benefits to the local area.
