What the latest National Shipbuilding Office update means for members

The National Shipbuilding Office (NSO) has published its latest update on the direction of UK shipbuilding and while much of the language will sound familiar, there are real developments that matter to jobs, skills and long-term security in the industry, writes Prospect Negotiations Officer, William Dooley.

>>> Download the latest update from the National Shipbuilding Office (PDF)

The Fleet Solid Support ships and the Type 26 frigate export deal with Norway together represent billions of pounds of work and thousands of jobs across UK yards and the supply chain.

This reinforces the case for sustained, sovereign shipbuilding in the UK, but only if government and employers turn project announcements into long-term employment rather than short-term peaks followed by downturns.

Procurement is increasingly being used as a strategic tool to shape markets. For unions, this creates leverage. Public investment should come with clear conditions: fair pay, secure contracts, strong apprenticeship pipelines and respect for collective bargaining. We will be pressing for these standards to be written into contracts, not left to goodwill.

New technologies, including maritime autonomy, are also being prioritised. Innovation can strengthen the industry, but change must be managed properly. Unions will be pushing for early consultation, retraining and redeployment commitments and assurances that technology improves jobs and safety rather than undermining them.

A strong UK shipbuilding industry depends on experienced, skilled workers who are treated fairly and have confidence in their future and that is what we will continue to fight for on members’ behalf.”