Local Liberal Democrats condemn closure of RAF Cottesmore

2.25.30pm GMT Wed 16th Dec 2009

Local Rutland Liberal Democrats, Grahame Hudson and Marc Oxley, have condemned the Labour Government's announcement of the closure of RAF Cottesmore.

Grahame, who is the prospective parliamentary candidate (PPC) for Rutland and Melton and a former Royal Navy officer, said, "I was shocked and appalled to hear of the closure of RAF Cottesmore in the Defence Secretary's statement earlier today. The closure will have a devastating effect on the local economy in terms of employment and the community will miss the huge contribution that the RAF and RN make. The early withdrawal of the Harrier force will greatly affect the UK's ability to defend itself, at home and abroad. It is a particularly insensitive decision in light of the distinguished service that the RN and RAF aircrew and ground support crews have given in Afghanistan over the last 5 years. I fully support Alan Duncan MP's statement saying that he will do everything that he can to reverse this decision."

Rutland County Councillor Marc Oxley said, "The long associations of RAF Cottesmore with Rutland go back to the 1930's so it is a very sad day for Rutland. It will also impact on the education of children in the county as Cottesmore Primary school is on the base."