An MP in South Somerset has warned that delays to a government defence contract are putting hundreds of jobs at risk.
Adam Dance, the Liberal Democrat MP for Yeovil, has written to the defence secretary to demand clarity on the future of the New Medium Helicopter (NMH) programme.
The programme, which has faced repeated delays, is tied to the government’s broader Defence Investment Plan, which ministers have said will be published "later in the year."
With Parliament due to rise before the end of the year, Mr Dance has warned that further delays could threaten the future of the defence industry in Yeovil.
Leonardo, based in Yeovil and a major employer, contributes around £320m to local GDP and supports thousands of skilled jobs and apprenticeships.
Mr Dance said: "Leonardo in Yeovil is vital to our local economy and to the UK's defence capability.
"Workers in Yeovil have been repeatedly promised that a defence dividend in British jobs and apprenticeships will include our town.
"But without the New Medium Helicopter contract, that promise means very little.
"After months of delay and uncertainty, my constituents deserve clear answers on when the Defence Investment Plan will be published and when this long overdue contract will finally be awarded.
"The lack of a clear timetable is causing real concern about the future viability of the Yeovil site.
"The impact of losing Leonardo would be devastating for local jobs, skills and our wider economy.
"I will continue to press the government for urgent clarity."
Mr Dance stressed that the future of the site, and the success of projects such as the Proteus uncrewed helicopter, depend on the government finally awarding the NMH contract.
He has also called for a clear timeline on when the Defence Investment Plan will be published and the awarding of the NMH contract.
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