Prime Minister’s multi-billion pound defence investment to create 10,000 UK jobs

The UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson has announced the “biggest programme of investment in British defence since the end of the Cold War”.

The PM has unveiled plans for a new multi-year settlement which will see the Ministry of Defence create tens of thousands of jobs across the country.

Mr Johnson announced a £16.5bn increase above the manifesto commitment over four years, including investment in a new agency dedicated to artificial intelligence, the creation of a ‘national cyber force’ and a new ‘space command’ - expected to be capable of launching the country’s first rocket by 2022.

Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, commented: “I have taken this decision in the teeth of the pandemic because the defence of the realm must come first.

“This is our chance to end the era of retreat, transform our Armed Forces, bolster our global influence, unite and level up our country, pioneer new technology and defend our people and way of life.

“The £16.5bn extra in the Ministry of Defence’s budget over the next four years is the amount over and above the manifesto commitment. The Government has already pledged to increase defence spending by 0.5 per cent above inflation for every year of this parliament.”

Defence Secretary Ben Wallace added: “This is excellent news for defence, and provides us with the financial certainty we need to modernise, plan for the future and adapt to the threats we face. It demonstrates the Prime Minister’s recognition of how important defence is to our resilience and to the reputation of the United Kingdom.

“This settlement secures UK jobs and livelihoods, allows us to invest in our fantastic shipyards and aerospace industry, spreading prosperity to every corner of the UK.

“Next year represents a huge opportunity for this country, and defence will be at the forefront of creating the jobs and business opportunities that will help us build back from the pandemic.”

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