UK commits £8.4bn to new nuclear submarines, citing security and job growth

During a stop in Barrow-in-Furness, Prime Minister Andy Burnham announced an £8.4 billion allocation for the Dreadnought-class nuclear submarine project, describing it as essential for Britain’s long-term security and a catalyst for 47,000 jobs and apprenticeships. The funding marks the start of the fourth phase of a programme that began in 2006 and will replace the ageing Vanguard fleet in the 2030s. The investment sits within a £63.6 billion Defence Nuclear Enterprise plan that also covers maintenance of current submarines and future shipbuilding.

Conservative shadow defence secretary James Cartlidge welcomed the step but accused Burnham of not committing sufficient resources to defence overall. Burnham affirmed his commitment to the NATO 3.5% defence-spending goal for 2035 and highlighted new procurement rules that will favour firms offering 45-day work placements, echoing policies from his time as Greater Manchester mayor.