Defence Secretary Wes Streeting has praised Plymouth’s historic and continuing role in Britain’s national security during a visit to HMNB Devonport.
Streeting said the city’s maritime heritage remained central to the country’s defence and argued that Devonport also had an important future as the Government looks to strengthen defence capability, innovation and skilled employment.
Writing on X following the visit, Streeting said:
“Defence runs in the blood in Plymouth. This city has a proud maritime history at the heart of our national security – and an equally exciting future.”
“HMNB Devonport’s future is secure and bright as they push the frontiers of defence innovation to keep us all safe.”
Streeting met service personnel and others working at the naval base during the visit, which comes as the Labour Government puts greater emphasis on strengthening Britain’s defence industrial base and ensuring defence investment supports jobs and communities around the country.
HMNB Devonport is one of the Royal Navy’s most important bases and has long been closely tied to Plymouth’s economy and identity.
The Defence Secretary’s intervention will therefore be welcomed locally as a signal of the Government’s commitment to the base and its future role.
The visit also underlines Labour’s argument that increased investment in defence can deliver both stronger national security and wider economic benefits through skilled jobs, apprenticeships, engineering and advanced manufacturing.
Streeting said Plymouth should be seen not only as a city with a proud naval past, but as one with a significant role to play in the future of British defence.
His message that Devonport’s future is “secure and bright” comes as ministers seek to expand defence innovation and strengthen Britain’s ability to meet emerging security challenges.
