Laws meets defence secretary
David Laws, MP for Yeovil Constituency, met Defence Secretary Des Browne MP on the afternoon of Monday 7th July, to discuss the order for 70 Future Lynx aircraft.
In the meeting – which lasted for 40 minutes – David Laws expressed his concerns about recent press speculation that the order could be reduced, delayed or even cancelled.
David emphasized the effects of this speculation on those people employed at Agusta-Westland in his Constituency. He argued that it was vital that the order be kept on track for the sake of the armed forces and for AgustaWestland.
The Secretary of State explained that the Government had difficulties funding all of the defence equipment needs of the armed forces, and that the Ministry was looking at all defence orders to see where savings could be made. This process was still underway, but the Defence Secretary said that he understood the concerns at Westland, and did not want the uncertainty to continue for any longer than absolutely necessary.
Commenting, David Laws MP said:
“I had a lengthy meeting with the Secretary of State, and I was grateful for the opportunity to take the case for Future Lynx right to the top of the Ministry of Defence.
“The 70 Future Lynx helicopters are desperately needed by the Navy and Army, and they are crucial to the future of AgustaWestland – in terms of retaining jobs and core engineering skills, and in securing new export orders.
“This contract was signed around 2 years ago, and a lot of money has already been committed to the contract, and I pointed out to Des Browne just how expensive it would now be if the Ministry of Defence decided not to proceed with the order. I also pointed out that the Future Lynx deal was the centrepiece of a new Defence-Industrial Partnership with the MOD, and it would be very unfortunate if this were allowed to fail.
“I particularly emphasized how difficult it has been for those working on the contract, and their families, to have to listen to all of the national press speculation of the last 4 months. The staff at AgustaWestland deserve to have this cloud lifted, and to know that the contract is going ahead.
“The Secretary of State indicated that his department is presently grappling with having too many equipment needs and commitments in relation to the cash available. He said that all orders were currently being looked at to see how his programmes could be paid for. Future Lynx is still part of that process.
“However, Des Browne did say that he could understand the concerns of the employees, and that he would want to make a decision on Future Lynx as soon as possible.
“I am obviously concerned that this matter should not drag on over the summer, and I urged the Secretary of State to give a green light to this contract before the August holiday period. Of course, it is crucial that not only should we get an early decision – but that it should be the right decision.
“I will continue to do all I can, working alongside AgustaWestland, to press the case for proceeding with the full Future Lynx order.”
ENDS.
Category: Constituency News