FEARS about a lack of consultation following the decision to shut HMS Caledonia in Rosyth have been raised by Economy Secretary Keith Brown.

After a meeting with representatives from councils affected by the cuts – which will see the end of the Royal Navy’s presence in Fife by 2022 – Mr Brown has described the MoD’s communication as “patchy and sketchy”.

He has now written to Mark Lancaster MP, the parliamentary under-secretary of state for the MoD, asking for assurances.

“If implemented, these cuts would result in near total removal of the Army from large parts of Scotland, signal the end of the Royal Navy’s presence in Fife and put over half of the Royal Regiment of Scotland on the move again,” said Mr Brown.

“A few local authorities have now been approached by the Ministry of Defence but, in most cases, little or no information shared on proposed future use of sites.

"No information has been shared on personnel moves and in some areas, no contact has been made whatsoever.”

In calling for more interaction with local councils, Mr Brown is hoping a working group will be set up to discuss the way forward.

“The Scottish Government is willing to convene this and I propose that the first meeting should take place early in the new year, with representation at ministerial level,” he added.

Dunfermline and West Fife MP Douglas Chapman welcomed the intervention of the economy secretary. “I share Mr Brown’s concerns regarding the lack of communication surrounding the Caley base and have already asked several questions in parliament about its future use,” he said.

“The MoD appears quick to make big decisions but slow on providing information and a plan for those it affects. After 100 years of linkage between the Royal Navy and Rosyth, if the base cannot be retained I will work for a positive outcome that will benefit Rosyth, particularly regarding the base’s facilities.

“I will be keen to use my experience as a former Rosyth councillor and as a current member of the Defence Select Committee to fight for the best outcome for the community, along with current councillor Sharon Wilson.”

Fife Council leader David Ross attended the meeting with Keith Brown MSP. “The letter he has written to the MoD reflects our discussion at that meeting,” he said.

“I have subsequently written to Mark Lancaster myself, reinforcing Fife’s concerns about the proposed closure of MoD Caledonia.”