MP seeks detail on ranges' future

Submarine crews test weapons at the ranges

An MP has sought clarification from defence contractor QinetiQ on the future of underwater weapons testing ranges in the Highlands.

Submarine weapons systems have been tested at the sites off Kyle of Lochalsh and in the Sound of Raasay.

But QinetiQ and the Ministry of Defence have said about 20 posts could go.

Liberal Democrat MP Charles Kennedy said it was vital the timescale for the staff reduction and any consultation on the job losses were known.

He said he would also be inviting Defence Minister Quentin Davies to the area to see for himself the importance of the ranges in terms of jobs and generating money for the local economy.

This week, a website was launched in the fight to save threatened jobs on rocket test ranges in the Western Isles.

Once fully up and running, www.hebridesrangetaskforce.co.uk will have a message board to allow the public to post views on the plans.

QinetiQ runs the sites on South Uist and Benbecula on behalf of the Ministry of Defence, along with one on St Kilda.

The move to cut 125 staff on the islands and at the underwater ranges is part of plans aimed at saving about £50m.