A farmer from Whelford who says she raised the alarm about vans blocking a road near RAF Fairford has responded to comments from Defence Secretary Wes Streeting, who said she only had “a partial picture” of the situation.
Farmer's response to Streeting
The farmer, who has not been named, said she was “savaged” by Streeting’s remarks, according to the Daily Express. She said she had reported the vans to police before five men were arrested on suspicion of offences under the Explosives Act.
Background to the arrests
The arrests took place after police were called to reports of suspicious activity near the RAF base. The farmer said her warning had been important in helping officers respond to the incident.
Streeting, speaking earlier, said the woman had only “a partial picture” of what had happened, a comment she has now rejected.
Ongoing investigation
The five men remain in custody as the investigation continues. The farmer’s account of events has not been disputed by police or the Ministry of Defence, but no further details have been released.
The Daily Express reports that this is a breaking story and more information is expected to follow.
