Moray task force discusses mitigation measures with Secretary of State for Scotland.

25 November 2010

Members of the Moray task force are holding meetings in London today to discuss the threatened defence cuts to RAF bases in Moray with Secretary of State for Scotland Michael Moore and officials from the UK Treasury and Ministry of Defence.

The group is using the meetings to present the case to Mr Moore for immediate and longer term support packages to mitigate against the closure of RAF Kinloss and the uncertainty facing RAF Lossiemouth.

Proposals include funding support for new businesses and inward investment, support for the voluntary sector and support for tourism.

They will also seek clarity from Ministry of Defence officials on timescale and cost issues being used to determine the future of the bases.

Calum Macpherson of the Moray task force said:

"Today's meeting allows us to present the urgency of the situation to the Secretary of State for Scotland and to officials from the Ministry of Defence and Treasury. 

"It is the first in a series of meetings which, for the task force, is about setting out a robust case for the support measures needed immediately and in the medium to long term. The message to the Treasury, to the Ministry of Defence and to the Secretary of State for Scotland is that decisions about the bases may be made in the next few weeks and months but we need to work together now to secure a prosperous future for the people of Moray in the years to come."

"We want to work with UK government to develop the best possible response to the challenges. We need to promote Moray as a place to live and work, create a diverse jobs market, attract new investment and provide the training needed to keep RAF personnel and contractors working in the area.

"This meeting is about engaging with the UK Government and making these things happen."