MOD ANSWERS EXPOSE PRESTWICK CONFUSION

MOD ANSWERS EXPOSE PRESTWICK CONFUSION

CALLOUS DISREGARD FOR JOBS AND LIFE SAVING SERVICES

There is chaos and confusion in the Ministry of Defence over its decision
to privatise search and rescue services.

Two parliamentary answers received at the same time from two different UK
Defence Ministers give completely contradictory statements as to whether
jobs will be lost through the decision to end Search and Rescue services
at Prestwick.

The SNP have today called for absolute clarity for the workers affected by
the UK Government’s ludicrous decision.

In one answer Minister Kevan Jones states: “It is not anticipated that the
decision to move future Search and Rescue operations from HMS Gannet at
Prestwick to Glasgow airport will result in any job losses”

In the second Defence Minister Quentin Davies says: “With the
introduction of new, modern, more reliable helicopters there is likely to
be a reduction in personnel at the two locations where they take over from
the MOD Sea Kings (RAF Lossiemouth and RNAS Prestwick).”

Both answers were given on February 22nd.

SNP MSP for South of Scotland Adam Ingram said:

“Privatising search and rescue services and taking the service away from
Prestwick despite promises to the contrary is a disgraceful decision.

“To do so with no idea whether jobs will be lost – or no honesty over
whether jobs will be lost - is appalling.

“The MoD must answer the question and answer it straight: how many jobs
are they planning on cutting from Prestwick and how many of those who
spend their time working to save others lives are now faced with having to
save their jobs?”

SNP Defence Spokesman and Westminster Leader Angus Robertson, who asked
the questions said:

“This is ridiculous. People who are regularly risking their lives to save
others deserve better treatment from the MoD.

"This shows Labour's callous disregard for people's jobs and for the lives
that could be put at risk through these cuts.

"The MoD is clearly in disarray and real questions are arising over the
ridiculous decision to privatise life saving services."