Call for clarity on Clyde frigate deal

THE SNP have demanded clarity on the future of the Type 26 frigates that will secure years of work for two Glasgow shipyards

Following reports that the ships could be ordered in small batches, MPs asked Defence Secretary Michael Fallown for assurances over the order.

The £4 billion deal for 13 ships to be build over 15 years would secure the yards in Govan and Scotstoun for a generation.

A Cabinet Office document stated they would be ordered in small batches “to bring realism to the project” has caused concern.

SNP defence spokesman, Brendan O’Hara pressed Mr Michael Fallon if he could explain the comments.

Mr Fallon said: “We confirmed earlier this year we are spending £859 million on design of Type 26 frigates.”

When challenged again to explain the comments, Mr Fallon said: “Only the SNP could regard £859m as somehow half-hearted we will be finalising the design of these ships shortly but we have to absolutely ensure we get good value for taxpayer pounds.”

Kirsten Oswald, East Renfrewshire SNP MP, also asked for more clarity on what the comments meant for the workforce on the Clyde.

Minister of State Phillip Dunne said it had to be ensured costs did not spiral out of control.

He said: “The workforce on the Clyde are manufacturing three offshore patrol vessels commissioned by the previous coalition government.

“We want to make sure before we enter the full manufacturing contracts that the contract structure are robust and we can hold contractors to account, unlike the aircraft carrier contracts which blew up to over double their original cost.”

Later, Ms Oswald said: “I thought it was worth asking again to get a bit more meat on the bone to make it more clear.”