Strategic Defence Review: Scottish Conservatives will continue to make the case for Scotland

The UK Government has announced details of the Strategic Defence Review.

Annabel Goldie MSP, Scottish Conservative Leader, said:

"We now see the stark reality for Scotland of Labour's monumental economic incompetence. Labour left a defence budget £38billion in the red. That is as incomprehensible as it is unacceptable. But it has to be dealt with.

"And before the SNP gets on its high horse, Alex Salmond needs to remember that Scotland only has defence jobs and contracts because we are part of the United Kingdom. Alex Salmond's policy of separation would decimate thousands of jobs, threaten our skills base and leave us isolated and vulnerable.

"I welcome the very important decision to continue to build the two aircraft carriers. That is vital in allowing Scotland to maintain its position as one of the leading shipbuilding nations in the world. 6,000 jobs have been secured, apprenticeships can continue and the expertise of a skilled workforce recognised and valued. These points were at the heart of the joint submission made by the leaders of Scotland's main political parties to the Defence Review, reinforced at our meeting with the Defence Secretary.

"Sadly, this review could not be pain free, given the scale of the black hole inherited from Labour. I fully understand the fears and worries of the people of Moray and I urge our governments to work with the local community and local council to chart a way forward and to identify opportunities. Moray is an area of resilience with skilled and talented people and we must all do everything we can to help them through this challenging period. The Scottish Conservatives will continue to make the case for Scotland."

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