We were delighted to host Admiral Tony Radakin CB ADC, First Sea Lord. He talked us through the Integrated Review and the Command Paper emphasised the importance of the decision to agree a four year budget last year that produced not only an additional £24 billion but clarity for the future. However, the additional funding still did not meet all aspirations and some difficult decisions had had to be made. He welcomed the decision to retain two Aircraft Carriers and the imminent Carrier deployment is a wonderful opportunity to demonstrate our 'confident but not confrontational' stance on the world stage. From 2015 to 2030 the tonnage of the Royal Navy will be increased by 50%, and this shipbuilding should not only strengthen the Union but also assist the levelling up agenda.

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