EEF comment on MOD defence industrial paper

Commenting on the publication of the MOD’s refreshed defence industrial policy published today Stephen Phipson, Chief Executive of EEF, the manufacturers’ organisation said:

“This is a welcome approach which brings MOD’s equipment procurement more closely into line with the UK’s National Security Objective of promoting our economic prosperity.”

“By setting out its intent to invest more of our defence budget in the UK supply chain, and assessing the benefits to the economy of doing so, Government now has the opportunity to capitalise on a sector that makes a real difference to our national wealth. In doing so it will also provide UK industry with more confidence to develop the high technology our Armed Forces need both now and in the future”

“The task for MOD now is to put the policy into practice. National Security cannot be achieved on the cheap and a poor outcome to next year’s National Security Capability Review would fatally undermine today’s announcement before it can take effect. A fully-funded defence procurement plan must emerge that suppliers can be confident will be delivered, encouraging long-term sustainable investment in skills and infrastructure here in the UK.”