Contracts for nuclear subs

The replacement of the Trident nuclear deterrent based at Faslane on the Clyde is expected to come a step closer today when ministers announce the signing of multi-million-pound contracts to design new submarines.

The Ministry of Defence is believed to have placed £350 million of work to design the new vessels, while British defence companies are also expected to be asked to begin work on their nuclear propulsion systems.

The MoD said details of the contracts, including the companies that have been asked to do the work, are expected to be announced in a written statement to Parliament today.