SNP MPS EXPRESS CONCERN OVER SCOTTISH MILITARY FUTURE

SNP MPS EXPRESS CONCERN OVER SCOTTISH MILITARY FUTURE

‘WESTMINSTER SHOWS NO REGARD FOR SCOTS TRADITIONS’

More information from this excellent Blackwatch website.

SNP MP for Perth and North Perthshire, Pete Wishart, has warned any attempt to replace the distinctive red hackle of the Black Watch regiment of the Territorial Army would be another blow to Scottish military tradition.

Mr Wishart issued the warning as reports suggested the Territorial Army is considering substituting the variously coloured hackles from the caps of TA soldiers for a single, unified badge.

Commenting, Mr Wishart, who campaigned against the amalgamation of the Scottish regiments, said:

"To abolish the famous red hackle from part of the Black Watch is incredible as we approach Armed Forces day. Very few wanted to see the amalgamation of Scottish regiments – it was a small comfort that the unique identities of the battalions would be preserved. Just a few years later and it is unacceptable that this is already cast into doubt.

"I will be seeking immediate assurances that this proposal will not be approved and that no further efforts will be made to dilute the identity of the Black Watch in any way.

The report comes amid further concern that the UK Government is considering scrapping a battalion from the Royal Regiment of Scotland.

Reducing the sole surviving Scottish regiment by 600 soldiers has reportedly been mooted in private discussions as a possible way of achieving an overall reduction of 1800 personnel.

Commenting, SNP Westminster Leader and Defence Spokesperson, Angus Robertson MP added:

“Any further cuts to the Scottish infantry would be a severe mistake.

“In these times of global instability, it would be an extremely damaging course of action and would further undermine the recruitment of the Army in Scotland.”