News: Industry welcome National Shipbuilding Strategy, but call for 'level playing field'

The strategy sets out a 30 year plan for naval shipbuilding and, in particular, takes account of the recommendations made by Sir John Parker in his independent report. 

It confirms that exportability will be embedded in future shipbuilding designs and heralds a greater co-ordination across government to support export campaigns.  

The proposals to streamline MOD procurement practices will be especially well received by industry and the emphasis on the procurement of the Type 31e frigates, a central pillar of the strategy, will be an important factor in underpinning the development of the UK shipbuilding supply chain, which typically is responsible for more than two thirds of the value of a complex warship. 

The setting up of a Maritime Enterprise Working Group, led by an Industry Champion, will take forward a number of the strategy’s recommendations on improvements of productivity and developments of a skilled workforce, and is a sound first step towards the implementation of the wider strategy and industry looks forward to helping facilitate the group’s work. 

Maritime UK member, SMI, is recognised in the document for its substantive contributions during the formulation of the strategy.

John Murray, SMI Chief Executive, said:

“Whilst international competition is clearly stated to be the preferred process for the procurement of non-complex warships and commercial vessels financed from public funds, we are encouraged that the strategy recognises the impact on UK prosperity of government procurement decisions and the wider socio-economic benefits of placing such contracts onshore.  

"However, it must be recognised that a level playing field for such competitions seldom exists between UK and foreign shipbuilders which is to the great disadvantage of the UK”.