SOUTH Somerset MP Marcus Fysh backed Trident in the Government vote and said it is a "key part" of our national defence.

Mps took to the commons yesterday for a vote on whether or not to keep the nuclear submarine weapons system.

The Commons backed the system by 472 votes to 117, giving the green light for the manufacture of four replacement submarines, which is expected to cost in the region of £31bn.

Speaking to the News after the vote, Mr Fysh said: "I voted to keep Trident – it is a key part of our national defence and it would be grossly irresponsible not to renew it.

"Nuclear strategy is all about deterrent and we have one of the very best.

"In a world of ever-changing threats it is essential that the Government retains Trident and it is a shame that some political parties would seek to abandon it."

Mr Fysh was joined by all the other MPs from the Somerset region who also all voted for.