Letter: Letting side down

As we await the finer details of the defence review, I am reminded of the last one. Gordon Brown was looking to make savings and defence was an easy pick.

The chief of the general staff, when studying the list where the cuts were to be made, got half way through it and declared that if the list was to be implemented he would need to look for a new set of generals.

We are now well aware of these cuts, with the main item being sending our troops into conflicts ill-equipped, resulting in soldiers losing their lives.

There is not much scope for any further cuts as the last government cut almost to the bone. Their casualties included recruiting offices, barracks, drill halls, training depots, medical stations and thriving regimental headquarters. The new Royal Regiment of Scotland, created by the merging of our famous regiments - a deed that angered the whole country - has still to set up an association or meeting point where its present soldiers can meet, ask for advice or get help.

The Royal British Legion Scotland has closed many of its clubs, which were wonderful centres where veterans were able to meet and talk to soldier friends. One has to wonder what services the Legion in Scotland provides, as it appears to be an organisation preferring to keep quiet.

(Major) Bob Ritchie MBE

Bloom Court

Livingston, West Lothian