The severe economic impact of jobs losses at Moray’s two RAF bases is highlighted in a new report published by Moray Badenoch and Strathspey Enterprise (MBSE) and Moray Council today, Friday 11 March 2005.

The research shows that RAF Kinloss and Lossiemouth contribute £104 million (including civilian expenditure) to the Moray economy annually and 21 per cent of all employment in the area is connected to the bases.

Consultants commissioned by the local enterprise company and the council to conduct the research concluded that Moray has a 'defence-dependent' economy.

Douglas Yule, chief executive of MBSE, said “The publication of this report is timely in the wake of the MoD’s announcement that it is going to cut more than 900 jobs between the two bases. It serves to underline the need for extra resources as the public bodies in the area work together to address the severe impact of this decision on the area.

“Moray is a defence-dependent economy where the RAF jobs help underpin a wide range of other employment, from suppliers, shops, pubs and restaurants to essential services like schools and hospitals. 

It is reasonable to expect that this scale of job losses will take around £20 million out of the Moray economy every year.”

Link to  executive summary of report