Thousands of highly skilled jobs will be supported across the UK
as the Prime Minister throws his support behind the aerospace
industry – with £975 million over the next 5 years for this key
growth sector.
In a boost for aerospace centres in places like Broughton, Filton
and Derby, the Government has extended the Aerospace Technology
Institute (ATI) Programme. The extension will speed up
innovation, create job opportunities and support an industry that
is a source of pride for communities across Britain.
The Prime Minister will today (Friday 15 November) make his first
visit to Wales since the Budget, which has one of the largest
aerospace clusters in the world, employing over 20,000 people.
Prime Minister said:
“From modern aircraft engines to helicopters, the UK's
aerospace industry is truly world-class.
“The UK is at the forefront of cutting-edge aerospace
industry, and by accelerating our investment we will unlock the
tech of the future and take a crucial step forward in our mission
to deliver growth and opportunity across our country.”
The government's investment provides industry with long-term
confidence in the UK as a place to in turn invest in cutting-edge
aerospace technology and help extend the UK's global lead in
wings and engine manufacturing, whilst working to deliver
zero-emission flights. Bidding for the funding will open in
January, with projects expected to begin from the Autumn.
Aerospace will also be at the heart of the government's
Industrial Strategy, while also having an important global role
in achieving our Net Zero targets and defence, with the RAF and
Royal Navy both relying on its technology.
Business and Trade Secretary said:
“Our world-class aerospace sector added almost £40 billion to
the economy last year, supporting high-skilled jobs in every part
of the UK.
“Backing the sector with this funding will ensure the UK can
continue to pioneer new technologies, all while delivering the
economic growth that will be felt in communities across the
country."
Ahead of the visit, the Prime Minister has also confirmed £49
million worth of aerospace projects in Wales. When combined, the
South West and Wales design and assemble around half of the
world's large civil aircraft wings.
The Prime Minister added:
“Growth is the defining mission of this government, and our
investment will drive forward the future of the aerospace
industry in Wales. Working in partnership with the Welsh
Government, backed by the largest ever Budget settlement, we are
determined to deliver the jobs and opportunities that will make
working people feel better off.”
First Minister said:
“Wales is a cornerstone of the UK's Aerospace industry, with
over 20,000 people employed here in high quality, skilled jobs in
the Aerospace and Defence sectors.
“I welcome today's news, another in a succession of job
announcements for Wales this autumn.”
Airbus UK Chairman John Harrison
said:
“The commitment of £975m for the aerospace sector over five
years offers certainty for long-term sustainable aviation
investment and highly skilled jobs, delivering on the UK's
R&D and growth plan and acknowledging Aerospace's key role in
the upcoming Industrial Strategy.”
