Scottish Labour’s David Stewart has challenged the Scottish Secretary to have the courage to stand up for Scotland and protect Scotland’s RAF bases that are threatened with closure as part of the Strategic Defence Review.  
 
The call comes as Council representatives from Moray are due to meet with Michael Moore today in Whitlehall to discuss the future of RAF Lossiemouth and RAF Kinloss.

It has been widely speculated that Britain's fleet of 106 Tornado fighter planes would be retired early.

Given half of those squadrons that currently use the Tornado operate out of RAF Lossiemouth it is feared the base could be targeted for closure as part of the Strategic Defence Review.
 
A recent Highlands and Islands Enterprise report estimated that RAF Lossiemouth and RAF Kinloss account for 16% of full-time employment in Moray, with staff and their families making up around 7% of the total population. The report also estimated the bases made a contribution to the local economy of some £158 million.

David Stewart MSP has also put down a motion in the Scottish Parliament highlighting the importance of the bases which has secured cross party support and which he hopes will be debated in Parliament. 
 
David Stewart MSP for the Highland and Islands that covers both RAF bases said:

“RAF Lossiemouth and RAF Kinloss are not only vital to the strategic defence of the UK but account for some 16% of full-time employment in Moray and contribute millions to the local economy. 

“Michael Moore must do more than listen, he must now act.  
 
“The challenge to Michael Moore is to have the backbone to stand up to his Coalition colleagues and protect Scotland’s RAF bases.

”Those employed at Scotland’s RAF bases and in all its supporting industries will be understandably nervous at the prospect of the Tory - Lib Dem cuts to come.

”Given half of the squadrons that currently use the Tornado operate out of RAF Lossiemouth, any decision to retire the fleet early would be the nail on the coffin of the base if the replacement fleet is not in place.  

”Report after report has highlighted the fragility of Moray's economy and to lose either of the bases would would be an economic disaster and devastating for the area.

”It is becoming increasingly clear the Strategic Defence Review is not about a careful consideration of our defence needs but instead just cover for the callous Coalition cuts that are to come.”

8 September 2010