SNP challenged on navy under independence

A LABOUR MP has challenged the SNP to commit to the retention of an aircraft carrier in an independent Scotland.

Thomas Docherty, whose Dunfermline and West Fife seat includes the Rosyth dockyard, which employs more than 1500 skilled workers, said Labour had reaffirmed its promise to help deliver the current carriers project and secure jobs in Rosyth despite accepting deep cuts to the defence budget.

Now he has written to SNP defence spokesman Angus Robertson, calling for a similar pledge.

Mr Docherty said: “The lack of detail on the size, shape or type of navy that a separate Scotland would have is causing a great deal of anxiety locally and it is time the SNP came clean.

“There is no doubt that the loss of the carriers would have a devastating impact and the SNP has a responsibility to make people aware of the full consequences of separation.”