Ross comments on Defence Committee report calling for more Martine Patrol Aircraft
Moray MP, Douglas Ross, has commented after a report from Westminster’s Defence Select Committee stated that the 9 Poseidon P8 aircraft which will be based at RAF Lossiemouth will not be sufficient for the United Kingdom’s defence needs. The report said: “Unrealistic assumptions have been made about the ability of NATO allies to contribute to MPA provision and that at least 16 aircraft and a higher crewing requirement is needed to attain the necessary coverage.” Douglas Ross said:
“Moray and RAF Lossiemouth are preparing for the arrival of the nine P8s that have been ordered and this commitment should not be underestimated. It will bring more than 400 jobs to Lossiemouth, where £400 million is also being invested in infrastructure to support the aircraft. This is a substantial and welcome investment and shows the importance of Moray and Scotland to the defence capabilities of the UK.
“The report rightly recognises that the UK needs an effective maritime patrol aircraft capability to keep our country safe and the UK Government has addressed this with the P8s already heading to RAF Lossiemouth.
“But I hope the Government looks carefully at the recommendations in the report, specifically those calling for additional maritime patrol capability. The UK must be able to defend itself, and we know that hostile incursions into UK waters from foreign submarines are on the rise. This is not an area where we can afford to take risks, and, if necessary, the Government should consider additional aircraft and crew. Lossiemouth and Moray will be ready to support any increase in the number of P8s and personnel.”