Government more than doubles spending with Scottish defence firms
Small and medium Scottish defence firms have seen Government spending increase by 4.5%, more than double, after concerns they were being overlooked.
In its response to the Scottish Affairs Committee's report, 'Defence in Scotland: Military shipbuilding, the Government confirmed spending went from 2.5% in 2020/2021 to 7% in 2021/2022.
The report on Scottish defence was themed around spending, with concerns that Scottish companies were being overlooked by the Ministry of Defence (MOD) and prime contractors.
However, the Government's new spending has been welcomed by the committee.
The report had raised fears the building of warships was being exported, with competition opening up to international companies.
It was also raised as a concern that this could negatively affect Scottish shipyards and the supply chain.
The committee also looked at the decision to award the Fleet Solid Support (FSS) ships to an international consortium, Team Resolute, asking for further clarification as to why the team was awarded the contract.
The chair of the committee, Pete Wishart, has written to the Defence Secretary asking for clarity.
Mr Wishart did, however, say it was "brilliant news" the spending had increased.
"I hope supply chains across Scotland start to feel this investment, which will support many jobs and local economies. It is a vote of confidence in the Scottish defence sector," he said.
However, he added there was still disappointment "with the lack of information on the decision to award the FSS contract to an international consortium over a Team UK bid".
"If the UK Government is insistent that it is not offshoring the building of warships, we need to better understand the reasons for its decision," he said.
"I hope the Defence Secretary is able to shed some light on this issue in response to my letter today."
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