Former Liberal Democrat leader Sir Menzies Campbell has launched an attack on the Ministry of Defence, accusing officials of being responsible for “leaks and mischief-making” over the future of RAF Leuchars.
He hit out amid mounting speculation the base could be replaced by an army barracks.
In a letter to Defence Secretary Liam Fox, Sir Menzies stresses the potentially damaging nature of rumour. He also slams reports suggesting Leuchars has been chosen as a good site as an army base due to its proximity to a number of high-quality golf courses.
“You should be aware that speculation about RAF Leuchars is rife,” Sir Menzies wrote. “The latest ‘leak’ said to come from the MoD is that Leuchars will become an army base and that this is being influenced by the desire of army generals to play golf at St Andrews.
“This colourful suggestion inevitably has an impact on confidence about the decision-making process.”
Despite being confident all the talk is “spurious,” Sir Menzies clearly believes the MoD has done little to quell the tide of rumour.
“It is clear that there is some mischief-making going which gains spurious authority because it is alleged to be from ‘informed sources’,” the North East Fife MP continued. “I hope you will feel able to ensure that all the MoD staff connected with these difficult decisions understand the importance of avoiding the fuelling of unnecessary speculation.”
Sir Menzies called on Dr Fox to make a public statement to clarify the situation.
“I have been consistently assured by ministers that no final decisions have yet been taken in relation to RAF bases in Scotland,” he added. “I should be grateful if you were able to confirm this publicly yet again.”To show your support for RAF Leuchars, leave a comment below or click here.