AN MP welcomed apprentices to the House of Commons to celebrate the 12,000 apprenticeships provided by aerospace, defence, security and space (ADS) industries.

100 apprentices from some of Britain’s leading ADS group companies attended the ADS Parliamentary reception, and were welcomed by MP Stephen Metcalfe.

Mr Metcalfe said: “I was delighted to welcome apprentices from across south Essex.

“The reception was an excellent opportunity to celebrate the talent working in these world-leading sectors and meet young people, like Callum Rogers from Leonardo, who’s working towards a skilled career.

“These apprentices are great ambassadors for our area and advanced manufacturing industries.”