By Dr. Ann Griffiths, 16 October 2024
It is surprising, and probably heartening for the RCN, that a recent poll conducted by Nanos Research and CTV News indicates that Canadians support increased defence spending – on submarines. The survey was conducted at the end of September/beginning of October, and 3 out of 4 respondents supported spending on new subs. According to the survey, 44% said they supported the decision to purchase 12 new submarines, 32% said they were somewhat supportive, 10% said they were somewhat opposed, 10% said they were completely opposed, and 4% said they were unsure. Interestingly, support was highest, not on the coasts, but in Ontario. Also, support numbers were marginally higher for male respondents than female, and significantly higher for older respondents than younger ones.
See Charlie Buckley, “3 in 4 Canadians show support for defence spending on new submarines, Nanos survey shows,” available at https://www.ctvnews.ca/politics/3-in-4-canadians-show-support-for-defence-spending-on-new-submarines-nanos-survey-shows-1.7070856
7 thoughts on “Support for Submarine Replacement”
Good news that the public support the move.
Yes it really made me happy to hear that the public understands the real urgent need to get this procurement happening ASAP. It is a Eureka moment for the RCN. If I was young again I’d be joining tomorrow.
Good morning Blair,
It would have been very helpful if the survey had explored what people were prepared to give up to pay for the submarines.
I fear that this survey result is based on thoughtless responses rather than an informed understanding of the issues involved.
Ubique,
Les
I suspect you’re right Les. Surveys tend to use loaded questions as well.
If you have ever seen Yes Minister / Prime Minister in the clip about surveys, Sir Humphrey gives you a master class in how it’s done.
Sir Humphrey was an expert on weapons system too! When asked by the PM, ” why is it that the only torpedoes that work are WW2 torpedoes?”, his priceless reply was ” because they were tested so often”.
Was the question posed in an episode in which the Falklands War was referenced? (It was the SSN HMS Conqueror that sank the cruiser Belgrano with a couple of old Mk 8 torpedoes from WW2.)
Public buy-in can change overnight, or be displaced by a half-convincing narrative about some other ‘need’.
Best whittle down the candidates and choose a winner before that happens. Time’s running out!