BAE Barrow - nuclear deterrent central to new defence review

According to the Ministry of Defence, one of the review's aims is modernise and maintain the nuclear deterrent. The submarines that carry the warheads are built in Barrow at the BAE site. 

The Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said: "We live in a more dangerous and volatile world.

"We will make sure our hollowed-out armed forces are bolstered and respected, that defence spending is responsibly increased, and that our country has the capabilities needed to ensure the UK's resilience for the long term."

Defence Secretary John Healey and Sir Keir will oversee the review. George Robertson, peer in the House of Lords for Port Ellen, is a former Nato secretary general. 

The former MP John Woodcock, who sits with Lord Robertson as Lord Walney, said: "I'm really delighted that Lord Robertson has been appointed as leader of the new Labour government's strategic review. 

"It's another clear sign that future of Barrow and the UK nuclear deterrent is in really solid hands." 

Lord Walney also commented on the movement away from the previous Labour party leadership on issues related to defence. He said: "George and Jeremy [Corbyn] are about as far apart as it is possible to be." 

Lord Robertson told The Telegraph that the UK is 'confronted by a deadly quartet of nations.' Referring to threats from China, Iran, Russia and North Korea. 

Along with analysing the nuclear deterrent, the review will examine how to strengthen UK homeland security and bolster Ukraine in its fight with Russia. 

It will set out a road map on how to reach the Government's target of spending 2.5 per cent of gross domestic product on defence. 

Former prime minister Rishi Sunak had set a 2030 goal for spending 2.5 per cent, at a cumulative cost of £75 billion over six years, but the new Labour administration has yet to commit to a timetable. 

Four Dreadnought submarines are currently being built in Barrow.