John Cooper

John Cooper

Conservative — Dumfries and Galloway

Speaking in the House of Commons on 10 November 2026

Debate

Submarine Service 125th Anniversary

Contribution

I will be as brief as I can. As a former journalist, I have to say that it is right that we scrutinise the military; it is not a political football. We have not really heard what is wrong with Astute-class submarines. To paraphrase Admiral Beatty at the battle of Jutland, something appears to be wrong with our bloody ships. I thank all right hon. and hon. Members who have taken part in the debate. It has been a tremendous opportunity to pay tribute to the stoicism and bravery of submariners throughout the ages, which has sadly and too often been tinged with tragedy, as we have heard. We can all go home tonight and sleep safely in our beds knowing that they are out there somewhere, watching over us. Question put and agreed to. Resolved, That this House has considered the 125th anniversary of the submarine service.

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