Gordon Banks secures House of Commons debate on DARA

21 January 2008

Ochil & South Perthshire MP Gordon Banks has secured a debate in the House of Commons next week on the future of the Defence Aviation Repair Agency in Almondbank.

Mr Banks, the MP for DARA, said – “This debate is very important as we will be debating the livelihoods of DARA’s workforce but also the Ministry of Defence’s ability to maintain its helicopter fleet.  I will be seeking to establish the Government’s response to recent Union proposals and also to discuss openly what impact the sale of DARA could have.”
 
“My primary focus for now is to ensure that the Ministry of Defence (MOD) fully absorbs and gives appropriate consideration to the proposals put forward by the Unions representing DARA employees and I am sure the adjournment debate will provide this opportunity.”
 
“The Unions views must be considered fully by the MOD before a decision is reached. The debate will also allow the MOD to voice publically what issues it has with the Unions proposals and I am hopeful that the Unions will respond to any concerns the Minister may have.”

“During the debate, I will also be extending a further invitation to Defence Secretary, Des Browne and Baroness Taylor to visit the Almondbank facility to see first hand the quality of work produced at Almondbank in support of our front line forces.”

“My top priorities, and indeed that of the Government are the future of workforce at DARA and the impact on defence capability.. They have been central to my thinking throughout the many meetings I have had on this issue.”

“That is why I have met with the Unions, workers and management and with the Ministry of Defence. This matter needs to be brought to a suitable conclusion for the skilled and dedicated workforce at DARA. The Adjournment Debate will now bring these discussions into the public arena.”

“I have said on many occasions DARA is a vital component in the local and indeed Scottish economy. It provides around 300 jobs and has an excellent partnership with Perth College in giving opportunities to many of our young people. The skilled workforce at DARA are a credit to Scotland and are DARA's best asset, and the fact that their work would be difficult to replicate anywhere in the UK, possibly even Europe has not gone unnoticed and must be recognised by the Ministry of Defence in it’s deliberations.”

Note to Editors

The Adjournment Debate will take place at the end of Parliamentary Business on Thursday 18 January 2008