In a speech to military top brass and business leaders in Edinburgh, he stressed contracts for the Navy's new Type 26 frigates would benefit "UK industry".

He also warned that an independent Scotland would not commission enough new vessels to keep Scots yards in business.

The warning came as he used his first speech in Scotland as Defence Secretary to launch a scathing attack on the SNP's military plans.

He claimed Scotland would be less well defended under independence than it is at present as part of the UK.

The Coalition has admitted 82% of claimants last year waited longer than its target of 13 weeks for checks on whether they should be allowed to continue receiving Employment and Support Allowance.

The figure is 15% higher than for 2011, and raises fears that the most vulnerable members of society, such as the sick and disabled, are suffering further stress from waiting for a decision on benefits.