Eluned Morgan backs UK Government plans to increase defence spending
The UK Government says its Strategic Defence Review will boost jobs and see increased investment in Wales.
UK Defence Secretary John Healey has been setting out how Britain's armed forces will change in coming years. He has committed to increasing spending and boosting the number of personnel.
The First Minister has welcomed the review.
Eluned Morgan said: 'Wales has a strong tradition of people serving in our Armed Forces, both regular and reserves. I look forward to seeing the full implications and impact for Wales, but I welcome the UK Government's commitment to increase investment in our defences, so that our armed forces are supported with the best technology and equipment.'
In terms of the presence of the armed forces here and the contribution defence makes to our economy, both are only likely to increase as spending overall is increased. That is in contrast to earlier defence reviews which have cut troop numbers, merged battalions and closed bases.
However, the Defence Secretary has acknowledged that there will not be an immediate increase in numbers but that it will take several years to recruit more troops. But there will not be a reduction and an announcement to invest £100m to upgrade the 800 homes here in Wales for forces families signals that intention.
Currently there are approximately 3,000 military and civilian personnel based here.
The largest presence is the Army, with its Welsh headquarters in Brecon, but there are around 60 Ministry of Defence establishments and bases, here including reservist centres and training facilities as well as well-known sites such as RAF Valley, MOD St Athan and HMS Cambria. SAS selection takes place here in Wales too.
However, it is not just those directly serving in or employed by the Armed Forces. The UK Government says that over 160 defence firms are active here, employing more than 20,000 people.
If defence spending is going to increase first to 2.5% of GDP and then to 3%, some of that spending will be invested in Welsh firms. As things stand, the MOD spends around £910m in Wales.
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