THE Secretary of State for Scotland was given a guided tour of HM Naval Base Clyde on Monday during a day of engagements in the Helensburgh area.

David Mundell found out more about the Ministry of Defence’s plans to upgrade the base as it prepares to become the single home of the UK’s submarine service in 2020.

An additional 600 cabins will be provided for sailors at the Faslane base by next year, taking the base’s capacity for accommodating single service personnel on the site to 2,800.

The base currently employs 6,800 people, though that figure is expected to rise to 8,200 by 2022.

Mr Mundell was accompanied throughout his visit to the area by junior Scotland Office minister Lord Dunlop, who was born in Helensburgh.

Mr Mundell said: “The work of the Royal Navy team at Faslane demonstrates clearly how Scotland benefits from the United Kingdom’s armed forces, and how our military contributes to the safety and prosperity of Scotland.

“The team at the base play a very significant role in the country’s defence and national security.

“I am very proud of our submariners and the Faslane-based sailors and marines who protect both UK and international waters all the year round from Scotland.

“I also saw today how big a contribution the base makes to the local area, providing skilled jobs, supporting the local economy and contributing to regeneration

Following his visit to the base, Mr Mundell met representatives of Argyll and Bute Council to hear more about the local authority’s work with the Royal Navy to make the most of the ongoing development at Faslane.