Earlier this month I had the opportunity to visit HMS Sutherland and met many personnel on board, including a handful of South West Devon constituents. Along with a number of other MPs, it was really useful to receive a briefing on the current state of the British fleet.
HMS Sutherland was in central London, moored alongside HMS Belfast (worth looking for the video of the crew sailing her through Tower Bridge!). The Devonport-based warship is a Type-23 Frigate and a workhorse of the Royal Navy. She has recently undergone a major refit which will give her at least another 10 years of life. Royal Marines from 42 Commando at Bickleigh were on board and the Navy’s autonomous capability was displayed, showcasing innovations made by South West Devon defence companies such as Thales and Helsing.
This was followed by an equally fascinating visit with Naval Base Commander, Brigadier Tanner at HMNB Devonport on Friday. With an extensive site tour, a visit on board Type 23 Frigate HMS Iron Duke and submarine, HMS Triumph, as well as a trip out on the water to see the base from another angle, I learnt so much across the two days.
With 42 Commando based at Bickleigh Barracks within and Devonport Dockyard neighbouring my constituency of South West Devon, supporting our Armed Forces and the broader defence industry is one of my key priorities. Just last week I called on the Defence Secretary to set out how the Government will do more to prioritise British defence jobs and businesses in the imminent Defence Review
