‘Cheap ships’ gloom on jobs

TORY delays to big military contracts are blamed for plunging morale among defence workers.

Some 55% are more pessimistic about the future than a year ago, according to a study for the Prospect union.

The findings follow the shelving of plans for a £250million frigate after manufacturers warned the Government it was trying to build on the cheap.

Only one company tabled a bid, forcing ministers to delay the project.