ARGYLL and Bute will get a share of £300 million to expand 'growth deals' across Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, Prime Minister Boris Johnson has announced.

Mr Johnson made the pledge during a visit to HM Naval Base Clyde on Monday – his first trip to Scotland since being elected as Conservative Party leader and appointed as Prime Minister last week.

However, Mr Johnson did not say – and the Advertiser understands that Argyll and Bute Council does not yet know – exactly how big its slice of the £300m cake will be.

The cash, according to a Number 10 news release, will be used to "begin new deals in Falkirk, the Islands, Argyll and Bute, Mid South West Northern Ireland and Causeway Coast and Glens".

READ MORE: Growth deal is crucial to our future, says leader of Argyll and Bute Council

Ahead of his visit to Faslane, Mr Johnson said: "As I said when I stood on the steps of Downing Street last week, it is time that we unleashed the productive power not just of London and the South East but of every corner of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

"I’m proud to be in Scotland today to make clear that I am a passionate believer in our great Union, and I look forward to visiting Wales and Northern Ireland to ensure that every decision I make as Prime Minister promotes and strengthens our Union."

The council's outline proposals for a 'rural growth deal' for the area, unveiled last year, included more jobs, more space for businesses and better links with Faslane as key priorities for the Helensburgh area.

Council leader Aileen Morton has also spoken of industry 'centres of excellence' in various communities in the area, including engineering in Helensburgh and Lomond and marine science in Oban.

Argyll and Bute Council issued a statement on Monday afternoon which made no reference to how much of the £300m will make its way to the area.

READ MORE: MP 'deeply worried' at prospects for Argyll and Bute growth deal

Councillor Morton said: “We have worked hard to develop and promote a rural growth deal that will transform Argyll and Bute’s natural resources into long term success for the area, and into drivers for growth in the UK and Scottish economies.

"We are ambitious for Argyll and Bute, and we have strong local backing for this deal.

"It is in everyone’s interest that rural Scotland thrives. Momentum is clearly building to deliver our bid, and with it the area’s hopes and expectations.

"We look forward to working further with the UK and Scottish Governments to deliver this rural growth deal to Argyll and Bute.”

READ MORE: Council leader hails 'positive' talks with Scottish Secretary on growth deal plans

The authority's depute leader, Cllr Gary Mulvaney, said: “Investment could see Argyll and Bute lead the world through innovation in business sectors such as marine science. It could develop key routes to market for our world-renowned food and drink produce. It could bring the people and talent we need for our future.

"The more support Argyll and Bute gets from the UK and Scottish Governments, the more Argyll and Bute can thrive and in turn support the UK and Scottish economies.

"The sooner we receive funding the sooner we can get to work on delivering growth for the local, UK and Scottish economies.

"Today’s news takes us another step closer to delivering growth for the people of Argyll and Bute.”