Government Must Decide on Royal Navy Frigates
Union says its time to commit to new type 31 frigates and RFA support vessels as flagship aircraft carrier begins sea trials.
GMB, the union for shipbuilders, says now is the time for the Government to commit to new Royal Navy Type 31 frigates and RFA support vessels and the HMS Queen Elizabeth sets sail.
The flagship aircraft carrier begins its sea trials today and on the back of this excellent piece of engineering GMB has called on the Government to make its long awaited decision on the construction of the new vessels.
Earlier this year Sir John Parker urged UK ministers to start work on a new warship, the Type 31, arguing construction should be built and shared among UK yards in an alliance similar to the work on the aircraft carrier. [1]
The UK Government had been due to give its official response on the Parker Report but it was delayed in light of the General Election.
However the time is now right in GMB's view for a clear commitment on jobs in the shipbuilding sector.
Ross Murdoch, GMB National Officer for Manufacturing and acting CSEU chair, said:
“Once again shipbuilding workers in the UK have demonstrated what a world class workforce they are.
“Now that the general election is out of the way, it’s time to reassure shipbuilding workers across all UK shipyards.
“The Government must announce its decision, in line with the Parker Report, on the construction of the Type 31 Frigates.
“At the same time we again call for the Government to commit to building new Royal Fleet Auxiliary support ships in UK shipyards to secure much needed jobs".
