The Chair of the Portsmouth Naval Base Stakeholders Group, Portsmouth North MP, Sarah McCarthy-Fry was celebrating today as Defence Secretary, Des Browne announced that all three naval bases will remain open. 

This announcement, alongside the long-awaited contract to build 2 new aircraft carriers is excellent news for Portsmouth, securing ship building jobs in the greater Portsmouth area. Sarah said:  “The announcement of the Naval Base Review last September sent shock waves through Portsmouth and the surrounding areas, as one of the options under review was to close Portsmouth Naval Base and transfer the ships to Devonport.” 

"I am delighted that following the review, Portsmouth has demonstrated that it can deliver cost effective, battle effective support to the Royal Navy and this has been recognised in the decision announced today.”

“This is due in no small part to the way in which all the interested parties in Portsmouth fought the campaign to save the base.  Politicians put political differences aside and worked with the Royal Navy, the trade unions, the local paper, industrial partners, SEEDA and the local council to fight a mature and positive campaign, not seeking to put down the other naval bases but to demonstrate in a positive way the unique position of Portsmouth Naval Base.” 

“I also welcome the Secretary of State’s announcement of the VT/BAE systems shipbuilding merger.  This is great news for Portsmouth.  These two companies have already demonstrated a commitment to Portsmouth Naval Base through their joint venture Fleet Support Limited.  I am sure that this new company with Portsmouth as its centre of excellence will deliver real benefits to the MOD and to the navy.”