SHIPBUILDING TO CEASE IN PORTSMOUTH

Defence giant BAE Systems have announced the closure of its ship building operation in Portsmouth Naval Base.

Portsmouth Dockyard

All shipbuilding will stop in the second half of 2014 the defence firm announced this morning, some of the remaining work of its Queen Elizabeth Class aircraft carriers, due to be carried out in Portsmouth, moving to Glasgow. 

Over 940 workers are to lose their job's in the process. Workers were announced the devastating news this morning. 

One workers said:

'We were sort of expecting it. It's a sad day for ship building in this town'

Portsmouth is renowned for its history of shipbuilding , dating back to the start of the 1200s when it was opened under King Richard I.

However, BAE still defends its decision. Michael Ord, Managing Director of the firm when interview about the situation answered 'I recognise the impact of todays announcement, however we're entering into a consolidation process with all employees and Trade Union representatives.

Although this isn't directly on the Isle of Wight, the impact on employment and tourism towards our Island will not be a welcomed one. Another blow to the south.