News

Wales well placed to benefit from boost in UK defence spending

Published

8 months ago

April 8, 2025

Over 7,000 jobs and £914 million in spending underline Wales’ role in national security

WALES is set to benefit significantly from a major increase in UK Government spending on defence, with the country already a key player in the sector through cutting-edge technology and innovation.

New figures reveal that the Ministry of Defence (MOD) spends £290 per person in Wales and directly supports over 7,700 jobs. In 2023–24, the MOD spent £914 million with industry and commerce in Wales – an increase of £86 million on the previous year.

The country’s contribution to defence was highlighted during a ministerial visit to North Wales on Thursday (Apr 3), where Wales Office Minister Dame Nia Griffith visited Teledyne Qioptiq Ltd in St Asaph. The company develops advanced electro-optic technology used in defence programmes such as the Eurofighter Typhoon and Challenger 2 tanks. It also provides essential support to infantry forces through the STAS contract.

Dame Nia Griffith said:
“The defence industry is a cornerstone of our national security and economic prosperity.

“All of the MOD’s top five suppliers have a footprint in Wales, which puts us in a strong position to benefit from increased defence spending.

“Companies like Qioptiq are not only driving innovation, but also providing high-quality jobs and contributing significantly to our local and national economy.

“The UK Government’s top priority is kickstarting economic growth. By investing in the defence sector, we safeguard national security, create new jobs, and put more money in people’s pockets.”

Peter White, Managing Director of Qioptiq, added:
“It is a privilege to continue playing our part in keeping our troops and society safe.”

Across Wales, the defence sector includes over 160 companies employing more than 20,000 people. The industry’s importance is set to grow further following the Prime Minister’s recent pledge to increase defence spending to 2.5% of GDP from April 2027.

As part of that investment, the Chancellor confirmed in the Autumn Budget that £975 million will be allocated to the UK aerospace sector over the next five years – with £49 million already earmarked for projects in Wales.

While in North Wales, Dame Nia also visited Wagtail UK in Mostyn – an award-winning company that provides detection dogs and training services to clients including the UK Border Force, HMRC, Police, Trading Standards, and the Armed Forces.

Crime

Haverfordwest man denies historic rape charges involving underage girl

Published

27 minutes ago

December 17, 2025

Luke Sinclair

Trial listed at Cardiff Crown Court for 2027

A HAVERFORDWEST man has denied a series of historic sexual offences against an underage girl and is due to stand trial at Cardiff Crown Court in 2027.

Lee Mahagan, aged 52, of High Street, Haverfordwest, has pleaded not guilty to four counts of rape and two counts of engaging in penetrative sexual activity with a child.

The charges relate to allegations involving a girl aged between 13 and 15, which are said to have occurred in Cardiff between 2009 and 2010.

The court was told that the case is expected to take around five days when it goes before a jury. A trial date has been set for January 25, 2027.

Mahagan was granted conditional bail by Judge Hywel James following a hearing at Cardiff Crown Court.

The defendant is represented by David Pinnell, while Daniel Jones is appearing for the prosecution.

Crime

Teenager charged following rape allegation at Saundersfoot nightclub

Published

3 hours ago

December 17, 2025

Staff Writer

Incident reported at Sands Nightclub in early hours of Sunday

DYFED-POWYS POLICE is investigating an allegation of rape following an incident reported at Sands Nightclub in Saundersfoot in the early hours of Sunday (Dec 14).

An 18-year-old man was arrested after officers were called to the venue, which is a popular late-night spot in the seaside village. The allegation relates to events said to have taken place during the early hours of the morning.

Joshua Probert, aged 18, has since been charged with one count of rape. He has been remanded in custody and is due to appear before Swansea Crown Court on Thursday (Dec 18).

The complainant is entitled to lifelong anonymity under law, and no further details about the allegation can be reported at this stage.

Dyfed-Powys Police confirmed that enquiries are ongoing. Officers are understood to have carried out initial investigative work shortly after the report was made, including speaking to witnesses.

Anyone with information that may assist the investigation is urged to contact Dyfed-Powys Police.

Anyone affected by sexual assault or rape can contact the 24/7 Rape & Sexual Abuse Support Line, run by Rape Crisis England & Wales, on 0808 500 2222. Calls are free and confidential.

Local Government

Mayor visits Milford Haven Library Christmas event

Published

4 hours ago

December 17, 2025

Tom Sinclair

THE MAYOR of Milford Haven, Cllr William Elliott, paid a visit to Milford Haven Library on Tuesday morning to attend its festive Mince Pie and a Cuppa event.

The event brought together library staff and local residents, with the Mayor thanking staff for their work supporting the community throughout the year. During the visit, Cllr Elliott also spent time speaking with residents who had come along to the event or were visiting the library to borrow books.

Milford Haven Library is part of the Pembrokeshire Libraries service, which provides access to books, information, and community activities across the county.

The Mayor wished residents a Merry Christmas at the close of his visit.