Angus Robertson has hit out at the decision to reduce the number of air cadet glider squadrons operating in Scotland.
Defence Minister Julian Brazier has announced that the total number of squadrons operating throughout the country will be reduced from 24 to ten.
Among those being disbanded are the 663 squadron in Kinloss and the 662 in Arbroath.
Moray MP, Mr Robertson said the potential impacts of these cuts had not been addressed.
He added: “I am very concerned about these drastic cutbacks in glider squadrons, which have been an integral part of the air cadet experience for decades.
“The UK Government has already reduced Scotland’s airbases from three down to one and now they have followed suit with the Volunteer Glider Squadrons.
“Not only is this extremely disappointing for all those who have been involved in the glider squadrons, either as cadets or volunteers supporting the cadets.
“But there is also a question over the impact this could have on future recruitment.
“Gliding is frequently the first flying experience for potential air force recruits and, by making that experience much less accessible, there has to be a risk to the flow of recruits further down the line.
“The Ministry of Defence talk about best value for money but they have not addressed the potential impacts of this decision in any detail in their statement.”
