By Mark Mackay

THE SCOTTISH Parliament will be asked to stand up for Scotland’s infantry regiments or face the consequences.

A motion before MSPs will demand that the Scottish Executive make urgent representations to the Ministry of Defence to halt the planned cuts and amalgamations.

Mid-Scotland and Fife MSP Murdo Fraser said the proposals would have a detrimental impact on Scotland’s economy and cultural heritage. In the motion he calls on the Parliament to note the outstanding commitment and service of Scotland’s six infantry regiments over the centuries, and that “the recent war in Iraq was the latest conflict that showed Scotland’s regiments to be a modern, effective fighting force, as well as institutions steeped in history and tradition.”

Mr Fraser asks that it condemns the proposed loss of one of Scotland’s regiments and amalgamation of existing regiments into one or two new regiments, with resultant loss of individual identity and traditions.

The Parliament is also asked to support the belief that “in a time of increased commitments across the globe, our armed forces must have the necessary resources and structure to protect our country, deter aggression and safeguard our vital interests in the wider world.”

Mr Fraser said that as the plans would impact on Scotland’s economy and cultural heritage, he felt the Scottish Parliament “has every right to take an interest on this issue.

“I have demanded the Scottish Executive make urgent representations to the Ministry of Defence. I am astonished the Ministry of Defence are taking such action when we have our regiments serving at this very moment.”

A 140-strong lead company from the 1st Battalion The Black Watch left for Iraq last month and are now being joined by more than 400 of their colleagues. The 1st Battalion should be fully operational by the start of August.

Mr Fraser added, “This is a severe blow to our Scottish regiments’ morale. I have lodged this motion for debate so the Scottish Parliament can tell the Ministry of Defence that no one in Scotland is willing to see the end to any of our regiments.”