Graeme Downie

Labour MP for Dunfermline & Dollar, Graeme Downie, welcomed the investment after making securing additional funding for the dockyard one of his top priorities since his election in July 2024.

The investment of £340m was confirmed by Minister for Defence Procurement Maria Eagle MP in a written answer to Parliament. The investment will include improvements to infrastructure that will enable further submarine dismantling at the base, following the ongoing progress on the HMS Swiftsure decommissioning pilot.

In addition, upgrades would provide a contingency dock that could allow HMS Dreadnought, the next generation of the UK’s independent nuclear deterrent, to dock at Rosyth during her sea trials in the early 2030s.

Since his election as MP for Dunfermline & Dollar in July 2024, Graeme Downie has pressed for additional investment in Rosyth, both for contingent docking and submarine dismantling. This has included through securing a parliamentary debate on the UK submarine fleet in January as well as Written and Oral Question to Ministers.

This announcement comes just one week after the UK Government revealed a £10 billion deal for Clyde shipyards to deliver frigates for the Norwegian Navy. Today’s news ensures that Fife’s world-class dockyard is equally recognised and entrusted with vital national defence responsibilities.

Graeme Downie MP welcomed the investment, he said: “This is a landmark moment for Rosyth and for Fife, forming the foundation for growth and the success of vital defence jobs right here in Fife. This £340 m investment not only secures jobs and economic growth in the region but reinforces Rosyth’s pivotal role in supporting the UK’s strategic defence infrastructure for years to come.

“This investment shows what can be achieved when a strong Labour voice, who believes in our national security and our world-class local workforce, works with a UK government that values long-term investment in our defence sites.

“Our dockyard workers are among the most skilled and experienced in the world, and this investment is a clear vote of confidence in their ability to deliver for the UK’s defence needs. 

“I will be seeking further detail on how this funding will be allocated and when work can commence, but what’s clear is that Rosyth is being placed at the heart of our national security and military asset management.”