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SNP seeks urgent RAF base cuts talks with Liam Fox

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Tornado jet at RAF Lossiemouth
Image caption,

A decision on RAF Lossiemouth and RAF Leuchars is expected from the MoD

The SNP is calling for urgent talks with UK Defence Secretary Liam Fox over RAF base closures in Scotland.

A decision on RAF Lossiemouth in Moray and RAF Leuchars in Fife is expected from the MoD now that the Holyrood elections have been held.

The SNP's Westminster leader and defence spokesman Angus Robertson, who represents the bases at Lossiemouth and Kinloss, has written to Dr Fox.

He said: "We reject the continuing disproportionate defence cuts."

Mr Robertson added: "Given that there are ongoing meetings with the Ministry of Defence about the basing review I would be grateful for the earliest meeting."

The MoD previously announced that RAF Lossiemouth's 14 Squadron, and XIII Squadron from Marham in Norfolk, are being disbanded.

The Lossiemouth personnel have been involved in the conflicts in Afghanistan and Libya.

The airfield at RAF Kinloss will cease to operate after 31 July.

The armed forces are looking to shed 17,000 posts over the next four years as defence spending is cut.

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