Mr Holmes said the contract would not affect pending job losses at Warton and Samlesbury.

BBC: BAE Systems union says 'nothing signed' in India jet deal

He supported BAE workers in Warton and Samlesbury who were in danger of losing their jobs.

BBC: Search on for new Bishop of Blackburn

Conservative MP for the Warton area, Mark Menzies, said "now is not the time to give up".

BBC: BAE Systems union says 'nothing signed' in India jet deal

The BAE division that would work with Lockheed is its prestigious combat-aircraft facility at Warton in northwest England.

BBC: Dogfight over $200bn air contract

Brett Warton kicked the goal and then added a further penalty after nine minutes to give his side an eight-point lead.

BBC: Reds take the points

Nearly 900 workers are facing redundancy at the factory in Brough, East Yorkshire and about 1, 400 jobs are due to go in Lancashire at Samlesbury and Warton.

BBC: BAE job losses 'could cost taxpayers ?110m'

Gifts, benefits and hospitality (UK): 26-27 January 2009, to Warton in Lancashire, to visit BAe Systems for a tour of facilities and briefing meetings as Shadow Minister for Defence Equipment and Support.

BBC: Gerald Howarth

My return flights from London to Warton and one night's accommodation were provided by BAe Systems. (Registered 11 February 2009) 28 June 2009, visit to Biggin Hill Air Show as guest of BSkyB.

BBC: Gerald Howarth