PM to say Barrow is ‘blueprint for how increasing defence spending can boost UK prosperity’
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has hailed Barrow-in-Furness as a “blueprint” for how increasing defence spending can drive economic growth and create jobs across the UK. On Thursday, during a visit to the heart of Britain’s submarine-building industry, Sir Keir will lay the keel for the first of the Dreadnought-class submarines, marking a crucial milestone in the renewal of the UK’s nuclear deterrent.
This visit follows a secret trip earlier in the week, where Sir Keir joined the crew of a British nuclear submarine as they returned home after months at sea—making him the first Prime Minister to participate in a so-called “day zero” since 2013.
Honouring Barrow’s role in national security
In a further recognition of Barrow’s importance to national defence, King Charles III has agreed to confer the title of ‘Royal Port of Barrow’ upon the town, honouring its role in the construction of Britain’s nuclear fleet. The King is expected to visit Barrow in the near future to formally mark the occasion.
Sir Keir’s visit comes as the Government moves ahead with its commitment to increase defence spending to 2.5% of GDP by 2027—a pledge that ministers believe will not only strengthen national security but also boost the UK economy by creating thousands of highly skilled jobs.
A symbol of Britain’s defence and economic growth
Speaking ahead of his visit, the Prime Minister said:
“When I say that our Plan for Change is delivering security for working people and renewal for our country, there is no better blueprint than Barrow.”
“Defence spending here is supporting highly skilled jobs, driving opportunities for young people, and delivering world-class capabilities to keep us all safe, but it’s also crucially putting money in the pockets of hardworking people.”
The Dreadnought programme, led by BAE Systems, represents one of the most significant defence projects in Britain’s history, ensuring the country’s nuclear deterrent remains effective well into the future. The fleet of four new submarines, designed to replace the current Vanguard-class vessels, will be armed with Trident nuclear missiles and form the backbone of the UK’s Continuous At-Sea Deterrent (CASD).
Alongside the construction of the new submarines, the Government is also investing in £28 million of funding to support technical education across England, helping to train the next generation of shipbuilders and engineers.
Starmer pays tribute to submariners and their families
Earlier this week, Sir Keir personally witnessed the return of a British nuclear submarine to UK waters, meeting with both the crew and their families. He paid tribute to the sacrifices made by the nation’s submariners, saying:
“This week, I saw firsthand the sacrifice our submariners are making every day to keep our country safe, but I know they are only able to do that because of the support of the town of Barrow.”
“Each and every person living and working in Barrow is contributing to our nation’s defence, whether that is building our world-class submarine programme, or supporting the workforce here through vital public services or proud family businesses.”
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Defence spending and international security
Sir Keir’s commitment to boosting defence spending comes at a time of heightened global tensions, with the UK and its allies working to bolster Ukraine’s position in ongoing peace negotiations with Russia. The Government is pushing ahead with plans to establish a peacekeeping force to help enforce any potential ceasefire agreement in Ukraine.
However, Moscow has dismissed suggestions that it would accept a ceasefire if a Western-backed coalition of the willing were deployed in Ukraine.
Despite Russian opposition, European nations and the EU have pledged to ramp up their defence spending, ensuring that Ukraine remains in the strongest possible position to negotiate peace on its own terms.
A historic moment for Barrow and the UK
As Sir Keir lays the keel for the first Dreadnought-class submarine, the moment marks not only a milestone for Britain’s nuclear deterrent but also a symbol of how defence investment can revitalise communities like Barrow-in-Furness.
With billions being funnelled into defence, shipbuilding, and technical education, the Prime Minister’s visit underscores his Government’s belief that national security and economic prosperity go hand in hand—and that Barrow’s success can serve as a model for Britain’s future growth.
