The Press and Journal (Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire)
Sturgeon joins battle to safeguard military bases
Exclusive: Uncertainty surrounds future of Fort George and Kinloss Barracks
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon last night intervened in the battle to save Fort George and Kinloss Barracks – branding plans to close the bases as “astonishing” and “unacceptable”.
The SNP leader accused UK military chiefs of “throwing personnel, families and communities into uncertainty again” after the two Army barracks were earmarked for the axe.
She has written to Defence Secretary Michael Fallon demanding he “immediately” clarify the Conservative government’s position and end the threat of closure.
The Press and Journal exclusively revealed in June that the future of the 250year-old Fort George garrison near Inverness – home to the famous Black Watch – had been thrown into doubt. More than 4,500 people have signed our online and paper petitions against the move – with 800 extra backers joining the campaign at the weekend.
Last week, it emerged that Kinloss Barracks in Moray could also be shut down in the same Ministry of Defence (MoD) footprint review, as the department seeks to reduce its overall estate by 30% and save £1billion.
The MoD insists that no final decisions have been taken.
In her letter to Mr Fallon, seen by the Press and Journal, Ms Sturgeon said: “It is astonishing that the MoD would contemplate removal of the Army from Kinloss, given the investment and huge effort made by the Armed Forces and community to facilitate transfer from the RAF to 39 Engineer Regiment.
“This is a fresh blow to Scotland, coming so soon after news that Fort George faces threat of closure.
“Both closures would have a far-reaching economic impact and I request that you clarify your plans immediately and remove uncertainty over the future of these sites.”
The first minister said that Mr Fallon’s predecessor, Philip Hammond, had promised that the last shake-up of bases three years ago would offer stability and certainty, and now the MoD was “conducting its biggest ever programme of closures, throwing personnel, families and communities into uncertainty again”.
She added: “This is unacceptable and the Scottish Government opposes further cuts to defence establishments, personnel and civilian staff in Scotland.”
Highland Council leader Margaret Davidson said: “Nicola’s support is welcome. She will understand the economic impact that this will have, which will be
“Both closures would have a far-reaching economic impact”
significant for the Highlands.”
Kinloss was an RAF base until 2011 when its air operations ceased after the scrapping of the Nimrod spy plane fleet. The 39 Engineer Regiment (Air Support) took over in 2012.
Fort George was built after the Battle of Culloden and has been the base of the Black Watch battalion since 2007. a vehicle off the road on July 5, 2015 was not followed up.
Former lord advocate Frank Mulholland QC said he would expect an FAI to be held, given the level of public concern over the incident. New Lord Advocate James Wolffe QC agrees.
In a letter to Scottish Liberal Democrat leader Willie Rennie, Mr Wolffe said: “Like my predecessor, I consider it inconceivable that a fatal accident inquiry will not be held given the public concern over this tragedy.”
Mr Rennie said the Mr Wolffe must ensure the investigation proceeds as quickly as possible so an FAI can begin.