Adam Dance MP visits the Farnborough Air Show with Leonardo

Adam Dance MP was delighted to join Leonardo at the recent Farnborough Air Show to give his support to one of the major employers in his constituency of Yeovil.

Leonardo is currently bidding for a UK Government contract to provide new medium helicopters.  A decision on which company will be awarded the contract is expected within a few months. Adam will be lobbying for a swift decision with full consideration given to Leonardo which, alone, has the skills and infrastructure to provide a ‘Made in Britain’ helicopter to the UK Armed Forces.

Our forces need to have the best equipment and support possible.  Adam will be highlighting the strategic significance of retaining a UK-based helicopter design, development, manufacturing and support capability.

Adam, who visited the Leonardo site during the Election Campaign, is clear:

"I expect, and will ask the new Labour Government to ensure the forthcoming contract for the New Medium Helicopter is awarded on merit to our only UK-based helicopter company.  Leonardo will also provide the support and maintenance to our helicopter fleet over the long term. 

"Not only do the jobs of many of my constituents depend on Leonardo and its associated companies, but the economy as a whole benefits from having Leonardo in our area with a thriving UK-wide helicopter supply chain, as well as the potential for substantial overseas exports. 

"I will be making the case for any new contracts awarded by the UK government to be kept in the UK, supporting and retaining our full range of helicopter capabilities and our operational independence for generations to come. If not we run the risk of the UK becoming dependent on overseas support."