Firms speak out against RAF base cuts

A GROUP of high-profile business leaders in Moray have added their voices to a campaign to save the area's two RAF bases.

The Kinloss and Lossiemouth bases, which contribute 158 million to the area's economy, are under threat by the government's strategic defence review.

The local, family-owned firms want a meeting with Treasury Secretary Danny Alexander to underline the impact of cuts.

Bill Robertson, executive chairman of Elgin-based Robertson builders, said: "Any kind of reduction in personnel at either of the Moray bases would have crushing consequences."

James Walker, managing director of Walkers Shortbread in Aberlour, and Michael Urquhart, managing director of whisky firm Gordon & Macphail, in Elgin, agreed it would be a body blow to the area.