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Portsmouth naval base upgrades confirmed, MP says

PA Media This image captures a scene at a naval port with three individuals in navy uniforms standing on a platform, observing a large aircraft carrier docked nearby. The dock is bustling with vehicles and equipment. In the background, the Spinnaker Tower rises above the buildings.PA Media
New investment will expand jetties and berths and boost ship availability, MP Stephen Morgan said

Portsmouth naval base will increase its number of operational jetties and ship berths thanks to new government investment, a city MP has said.

Labour's Stephen Morgan said the details were confirmed in a letter from Defence Minister Maria Eagle.

The investment, known as Project Bentham, also includes replacing and regenerating aging buildings and infrastructure with more modern facilities.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves pledged a £2.2bn increase in defence spending during the Spring Statement.

Mr Morgan said: "It is great to get further confirmation from the Defence Minister of the Government's ambitious commitment to building on our city's proud history to deliver a modern, resilient and productive naval base."

Three individuals in navy uniforms observe a large naval ship docked at a busy port. The individuals are dressed in navy uniforms which include dark jackets and trousers, with caps that add to the formal military look. In the background, the large aircraft carrier dominates the scene, its expansive flight deck and command tower standing out.
MP Stephen Morgan hosted Defence Minister Maria Eagle at the base last month

He added that money would also be provided to protect against forecast sea level rises, as well as improve ship availability.

Mr Morgan wrote to Ms Eagle following the Chancellors announcement in April.

In her response she said the funding would secure "the long-term future of Portsmouth Naval Base, building on the city's proud maritime heritage to deliver a modern, resilient and productive home base that will enable and sustain the Royal Navy long into the future".

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