Adam Dance and Lord Fox back Yeovil's aerospace future during Leonardo visit
The future of Yeovil's world leading aerospace industry and the New Medium Helicopter (NMH) programme were among the key topics discussed as Liberal Democrat Business Spokesperson Lord Fox visited Leonardo this week.
Yeovil MP Adam Dance welcomed Lord Fox to the company's Yeovil site, where they met Chief Executive Clive Higgins and senior leaders to discuss the opportunities and challenges facing the UK's aerospace and defence sector.
The visit included discussions on the future of the NMH programme, investment in UK manufacturing, skills, apprenticeships and strengthening domestic supply chains.
Adam and Lord Fox were also given a tour of Proteus, Leonardo's next generation helicopter technology demonstrator, showcasing the cutting-edge innovation taking place in Yeovil.
The visit comes as Adam continues his campaign to secure long term Government support for the aerospace sector, following his work in Parliament pressing Ministers on the future of the NMH programme and the importance of protecting highly skilled jobs in Somerset.
Adam Dance MP said:
"Yeovil has been at the heart of British aerospace for generations and continues to play a vital role in our national defence.
"It was fantastic to welcome Lord Fox to Leonardo and demonstrate first hand the innovation, expertise and skills that exist here in Yeovil.
"We discussed the New Medium Helicopter programme, the exciting work taking place on Proteus and the importance of giving businesses the confidence to invest for the future.
"Leonardo supports thousands of skilled jobs in Yeovil and many more through its supply chain. I'll continue making the case in Parliament that investment in defence should also mean investment in British manufacturing and communities like ours."
Lord Fox said:
"Leonardo is an excellent example of the innovation and engineering expertise that exists across the UK.
"It was invaluable to hear directly from the company about the opportunities and challenges facing the sector, from advanced manufacturing and new technology to skills and future investment.
"Adam has been a strong champion for Yeovil's aerospace industry and it was a pleasure to join him in meeting the team at Leonardo. Supporting businesses like this, protecting skilled jobs and backing programmes such as the New Medium Helicopter project are vital if Britain is to remain a global leader in aerospace and defence."
The visit also highlighted the importance of developing the next generation of engineers through apprenticeships and technical education, ensuring Yeovil remains at the forefront of UK aerospace for decades to come.
Pictured Left to Right: Simon P Jones (Leonardo), Clive Higgins (Leonardo), Lord Christopher Fox, Adam Dance MP, Mike Roberts (Leonardo)