Fort George MP has today lodged an Early Day Motion in parliament asking MPs call on the Government to ensure that Fort George continues to serve the Highlands and the country for many years to come.
Commenting, Drew Hendry MP said:
“For decades we have witnessed the decline of military presence in the Highlands with the closure of RAF Kinloss and loss of Highland Regiments. It is vital that we don’t see Fort George added to that list and I have already written to Michael Fallon and to the Secretary of State for Scotland, David Mundell requesting an urgent meeting to rule out this reckless suggestion. I will, naturally seek to meet any possible successors as a result of the reshuffle.
“For now, I am now calling on MPs across the chamber to get behind our campaign to save Fort George and sign this early day motion which calls on the Government to ensure that Fort George continues to serve the Highlands and the country for many years to come.
“If plans to close this historic garrison were to go ahead, the social impact will be felt sharply here as will the economic cost. In the Highlands this is estimated to be as much as £14 million a year. Over a hundred jobs connected to the fort would be at risk and the economy of surrounding communities, in particular Ardersier would be deeply affected. We must all work together to ensure that doesn’t happen.”