A campaigning MP fears the UK Government is “preparing the ground” to deliver bad new about the future of Fort George.
Drew Henry spoke out after defence minister Mark Lancaster hinted the historic base near Inverness will be axed as part of a cost-cutting drive – but Kinloss Barracks will be spared.
Speaking in the Commons Mr Lancaster insisted Scotland must “expect some sites to close” as part of the Ministry of Defence’s estates review.
He told MPs yesterday the future of Fort George had not yet been decided.
But he added: “Scotland, like the rest of the UK must expect some sites to close as well as investments in those other locations.”
He made the comments days after Scottish Secretary David Mundell gave the strongest indication yet that Kinloss Barracks has a future, but Fort George may not.
Last week, the MoD announced the closure of 13 military sites, none of them north of the border.
Further casualties in the £1billion cost-cutting exercise are due to be unveiled later this year.
Inverness MP Mr Hendry raised the issue during defence questions in the Commons.
He said: “People in my constituency are very worried about the UK Government’s plans for the Army base at historic Fort George which supports around 750 jobs locally.
“Speculation is not helped by unhelpful comments made by the secretary of state for Scotland this weekend about the condition of the base.”
He asked: “Will ministers do the right thing, back Fort George and end this unhelpful speculation now?”
Mr Lancaster replied: “The MoD is continuing to review our estate to ensure it’s smaller and more sustainable.
“This will allow us to focus on delivering future defence capability and has enabled the considerable investment in sites such as Lossiemouth and Faslane.
“Whilst no decision has been made on the future of Fort George, Scotland will continue to be a vital home for our armed forces.
“However Scotland, like the rest of the UK, must expect some sites to close as well as investments in those other locations.”
Mr Hendry said later the remarks suggested the “groundwork” was being prepared for “the bad news that is coming up”.
The SNP MP added: “I don’t think we can take any comfort given the confusion, given the contradictory statements that have come over the past number of weeks.”
On Friday, Mr Mundell pointed to the age, condition and overall nature of the facilities at Fort George, adding: “Kinloss, on the other hand, is a relatively new Army facility.
“I don’t see what basis there was for the speculation that it was going to be closed or reduced.”
