Select committee: Scottish Affairs Committee

Conclusion 18

3rd Report – Securing Scotland's future: Defence skills and jobs Published 15 Sep 2026 Addressed to Scotland Office
Conclusion (the committee's words)
It is clear there will continue to be a role for international workers in Scotland’s defence sector for the foreseeable future, particularly given that demand for products from the defence sector has historically fluctuated. Current skills shortages have exacerbated this reliance as overseas recruitment is needed to meet immediate workforce needs. While international workers will remain an important part of the workforce, strengthening the domestic skills base would help ensure that future demand can increasingly be met from within the UK. (Conclusion, Paragraph 94)

From: Scottish Affairs Committee, 3rd Report – Securing Scotland's future: Defence skills and jobs (HC 165), 15 September 2026

Government response

Government response awaited: deadline 14 November 2026.