THE GMB Union has praised the announcement that manufacturing and design elements of the AUKUS deal will be done in the UK. 

It said that the pact could boost jobs at BAE Systems in Barrow, Rolls Royce in Derby and 'throughout the wider supply chain.' 

GMB is calling on the UK government to grasp the opportunities presented by the trilateral security pact, including ensuring investment in the people, skills and infrastructure that will make this agreement a reality.

Mark Roberts, GMB national officer said: "GMB is unashamedly pro-defence and has been urging the UK government to make the strong case for UK defence manufacturing and shipbuilding in the Aukus negotiations.

“In Barrow-in-Furness and in Derby, GMB Union members are at the cutting edge of defence design and manufacturing.

“As their union we welcome the news of a central role for UK defence manufacturing in this agreement, working closely with our Australian allies.

“It is crucial that UK skills utilisation is maximised in the coming years. GMB is calling on the government to invest in the infrastructure and people that will deliver this agreement.”