A north MP has condemned Scottish Secretary David Mundell for a “reprehensible” lack consultation” on the future of Fort George and Kinloss.
Drew Hendry lashed out at the handling of the future of the two north army bases and has now written to Mr Mundell urging for local councils, MSPs and MPs to be kept in the loop prior to any decisions being taken.
Mr Hendry said: “”The Secretary of State for Scotland, David Mundell, has already stated that sites in Scotland are likely to be affected yet the saga drags on with a shocking lack of engagement with the Scottish Government and local people who would receive the hardest hit by a calamitous decision to close our downgrade these bases.”
A decision on the future of Fort George – home to the famous Black Watch battalion – and Kinloss is expected within weeks as the MoD moves to slash the size of its estate.
Mr Hendry has previously been told by Mr Mundell that the MoD will engage with local figures “when the strategy reports”.
The MP added: “It is hardly a meaningful consultation if it means speaking to people once you have a delivered a fait accompli.
“Let’s be clear, this is a reprehensible way to behave towards our local communities and I have, yet again, written to the minister to ask that he meet immediately with the Scottish Government and share plans on the potential impact this review will have on Scotland, and on Fort George.”
A UK Government spokesman said: “The review has been undertaken on the basis of military needs.
“It is designed to secure and create the facilities required by a flexible, focused, modern fighting force.
“Sites that no longer meet those requirements will be released, providing opportunities for new investment, businesses and housing.
“Every penny we save will be re-invested in defence.
“Once the needs of our armed forces have been determined we will, as promised, engage further with local authorities and local communities.”
