HMS Bulwark and HMS Albion saved by Government

HMS Albion and HMS Bulwark saved from early retirement. Credit: PA

The Defence Secretary has announced that the government will save HMS Bulwark and HMS Albion at the Conservative Party Conference.

This ends months of speculation that they could be retired early to save money.

Gavin Williamson MP told attendees that the two Plymouth-based amphibious assault ships deliver the "punch of the Royal Marines". He acknowledge the ships' roles including putting troops from sea to land quickly and delivering aid.

HMS Bulwark and HMS Albion were said to be under threat as the government looks at how military forces deal with current threats against this country, but today they have been saved.

MPs from across the South West have told ITV News that this is good news and something they have been campaigning for for some time.

Labour says the announcement has been a long time coming but questions where the money will come from to save the two ships.

HMS Albion has been saved from early retirement. Credit: PA Images