Fife MP Calls For Leuchars Reopening

A Fife MP' is calling on the defence secretary to consider re-opening RAF Leuchars.

Stephen Gethins, the MP for North East Fife, has put his name to an early day motion submitted to Michael Fallon.

He believes the base - which the Air Force closed earlier this year and now houses 2 army regiments - is ideally positioned to provide air defence in light of recent terror threats.

Mr Gethins said: "The Government must consider re-opening the former RAF base at Leuchars as part of its current Strategic Defence and Security Review as the best strategic location and facilities which are the best the RAF has. 

"Yes, it is now a Army base but that doesn't mean it can't accommodate a squadron if the will is there to do it. Common sense must prevail; the Government must decide on whether it will replace its maritime patrol capability and ease the burden on NATO, and we need to ensure our the safety and security in the face of increased foreign threats."