FEARS that Government cuts would hit North-East defence jobs were cooled after the decision to press ahead with a super carrier programme.

However, BAE Systems, which has a plant on the River Tyne, announced plans to work with the Ministry of Defence to address the spending announcement that hit some of the firm’s major military contracts.

Manufacturers from this region participating in the construction of the two aircraft carriers include Hertel Technical Services, in Billingham, and Bonds Foundry of Tow Law, County Durham