Defence trade body ADS Group has released a statement outlining the implications it sees the 2015 Spending Review having for the UK defence and security industry.

The statement welcomed long-term funding for aerospace R&D, saying it would ensure UK industry remains globally competitive and one of the most attractive locations for this high-value and high-skilled activity.

In particular ADS said the UK’s aerospace industry would benefit from the Government’s decision to prioritise long-term funding for the Aerospace Technology Institute (ATI). The ATI, an initiative of the Aerospace Growth Partnership (AGP) providing strategic focus and funding for aerospace R&D, is changing global perceptions of the UK as a place to invest.

ADS’ statement also welcomed the announcement of an apprenticeship levy, but cautioned that the Government must next consult closely with both small and large companies to accommodate the new system and its increased demand for training providers.

The ADS statement concluded: “Government grants for R&D help the UK compete globally for mobile R&D investment. Maintaining the budget for Innovate UK will send a strong signal internationally. Industry will want to work with Innovate UK to understand how the shift to providing £165 million in loans will be delivered to help businesses and enhance the UK’s global competitiveness.”