A Plymouth MP has accused the defence secretary of wasteful spending after his trip to the city in March apparently cost two thousand pounds.

Philip Hammond came to Devonport to announce that the work on HMS Vengeance would be carried out there.

He came by RAF helicopter so that he could return to London in time to answer questions in parliament.

Labour MP Alison Seabeck was given the information after making a written enquiry to parliament.

She has said it's shocking at a time when many service personnel are being made redundant.

An MoD spokesperson has told Radio Plymouth that it is essential that Ministers and senior officers make efficient use of their time.

They add that it didn't cost the taxpayer anymore as the trip was part of annually contracted flying hours.