Kinloss Barracks closure speculation 'unhelpful' – Moray MP Douglas Ross
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MORAY'S MP has spoken out over speculation that Kinloss Barracks could be closed as part of an ongoing military review.
The UK Government's defence spending review includes the Army who are currently stationed at the Moray base.
Douglas Ross said: "It’s been disappointing to read so much speculation over the future of Kinloss Barracks from unconfirmed reports.
"Speculation is not only unhelpful but unsettling for the soldiers at the barracks when they have a vital role as part of 39 Engineer Regiment.
"This week in Westminster I have been working constructively with the UK Government and Secretary of Defence to establish the reality, instead of leaping to political judgement as some have done.
"I will continue to make clear my support for Kinloss Barracks as a vital part of the Moray community, and I am reassured that the UK Government remains as committed as ever to a strong armed forces presence across Scotland."
Yesterday Moray Council leader Graham Leadbitter said the national press reports on UK defence plans had "credibility".
He has called an emergency meeting of the Moray Economic Partnership to discuss the barracks' future, which is likely to be held early next week.
Kinloss Barracks is estimated to be worth around £30 million to the local economy.
