Question to the Scotland Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, what assessment he has made of the impact of the UK defence sector on Scotland’s economy.

Scotland’s aerospace, defence, security, and space sectors contribute significantly to both the Scottish and UK economies, contributing £3.2 billion in 2023 as well as directly employing 33,500 people and 1,500 apprentices.

Latest figures show that the Ministry of Defence's expenditure with Scottish industry was £2,140 million in 2023/24. Defence spending in Scotland, including military shipbuilding, generates and maintains high-skilled jobs, creates opportunities for inward investment and drives exports, benefiting both Scotland and the wider UK economy.

I recently hosted a defence industry roundtable to discuss sector priorities and opportunities, including regional economic development and employment.