Petition opposes BAE Systems role in Barrow’s new uni campus

It has been signed by more than 155 people and is questioning whether BAE Systems is a suitable fit for this collaboration due to its involvement with arms deals with Saudi Arabia.

The petition, started by Emily Heath on March 8, reads: "Although we support initiatives to increase Higher Education provision in under-served communities, and generally welcome collaboration between universities, businesses and local communities, the prospect of our universities working closely with BAE Systems is deeply troubling.

"As the Campaign Against the Arms Trade (CAAT) makes very clear, the role of BAE Systems as a supplier of arms to belligerent forces is direct and profound.

"BAE Systems is believed to have sold £15 billion worth of warplanes, weapons and services to Saudi Arabia in the first five years of the conflict with Yemen.

BAE Systems Submarines Barrow from above

"Only five per cent of BAE's sales are for non-military purposes.

"By arming Saudi Arabia to wage war on Yemen, BAE Systems is complicit (along with the UK Government) in creating what the UN has described as the worst humanitarian crisis in the world today."

In response, a BAE Systems spokesman said: “As a world leader in advanced engineering and technology, BAE Systems plays a vital role in creating opportunities for young people across the country, helping to address the critical skills gap and support the economic recovery.

"The company invests in a diverse portfolio of programmes aimed at inspiring the next generation of engineers and engaging with students to raise awareness of the broad range of Stem-related career opportunities on offer.”

CAMPUS: BAE Systems in Barrow

The University of Cumbria is developing a new university presence in Barrow and has signed a partnership agreement with Lancaster University to support this transformational project.

The two universities will collaborate on research partnerships with local businesses and on courses offering the best subject strengths from both Higher Education Institutions.

A University of Cumbria spokesperson said: “The development of a university campus in Barrow is crucial to supporting the region’s demand for developing higher-level skills among current and future workforces.

“It will enable local residents to go to university without leaving the area, in traditionally what has been a cold spot for developing higher level skills.

PLANS: The University of Cumbria has signed a partnership agreement with Lancaster University to support a new university campus in Barrow.

“As the largest employer in Barrow, BAE systems needs to draw constantly from a pool of highly skilled individuals, both directly and throughout its supply chain.

"Working with them, alongside all businesses in Barrow, not only do we support their needs, creating more opportunities for Cumbria’s young people, we can also address the wider local skills and employer needs.

“Our primary offer will be in areas such as project management, leadership, supply chain development, education and health.

"Lancaster University will provide leading expertise in data science and cyber security.”

The campus has had initial approval to progress to a full business case for funding through the Barrow Towns Deal, following approval of the strategic outline business case.

If successful, the funding will be available to start construction works on a new campus building in Barrow. Building works are expected to be completed by 2024 and the campus will open that year.