“These unjustifiable proposals would leave Scotland with just 25 per cent of the co-ordination centres in the UK despite accounting for 60 per cent of the sea area. In anyone’s book, that spells danger. Maritime safety – not financial savings – should be the driving force behind any review and the Scottish Government is closely examining the rational for the closure of any of these services.
“With ever increasing activity on Scotland’s seas – through oil and gas, offshore renewables, fishing and tourism – I have real concerns over the UK Government’s ability to manage the coastguard service. That’s why we are seeking views on how this valuable public service can best be managed in Scotland, including the merits of devolution.
“The UK Government announcement came as a complete surprise to the Scottish Government as there had been no formal discussion on the matter. This is unacceptable and is contrary to the ‘respect agenda’ agreed last year. The First Minister will be writing to the Prime Minister to express his disappointment that matters with clear implications for Scotland are not being handled sensitively.”
