John Swinney did not accept an offer of a briefing on the use of Wick John O'Groats airport for military purposes, according to Scottish Secretary Douglas Alexander. The claim was made on Thursday during a visit to the Leonardo factory in Edinburgh alongside Defence Secretary John Healey.
Alexander stated that he personally offered the briefing to the First Minister by letter last week, but it was not accepted. He emphasised that defence and foreign affairs are reserved matters under the Scotland Act, and that such issues should not be subject to party politics.
The offer follows recent events involving US military activity in Scotland, including the seizure of a Venezuela-linked oil tanker in the North Atlantic and a Russian-flagged vessel being taken to the Moray Firth for replenishment. Swinney had previously expressed concern about being kept fully informed on security issues affecting Scottish waters.
Mr Healey, the Defence Secretary, called on the Scottish Government to be a strong and reliable partner on defence matters. He also criticised the SNP Government for failing to invest in skills within the defence sector.
Regarding global security, Healey reaffirmed that Nato remains united in its efforts to protect the North Atlantic and the high north, with strong co-operation continuing with the US, Norway, and other allies.
