Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer announced funding for Christmas return warrants during a visit to RAF Lossiemouth in Moray on Thursday, enabling 35,000 armed forces personnel to travel home for the holidays. The announcement came as he emphasized the base's critical role in UK security amid ongoing Russian threats.
Starmer met with RAF personnel and military families alongside Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Store. The visit focused on defense cooperation between the two nations, including a recent deal for Type 26 frigates to be built on the Clyde for the Norwegian navy.
The Prime Minister framed the Christmas travel funding as recognition for military service. «It's just a way of saying thank-you to you for what you do,» Starmer told personnel at the base.
Security Context
Starmer highlighted the strategic importance of RAF Lossiemouth, where personnel operate P-8 Poseidon submarine-hunting aircraft. «What goes on from this place, you don't need me to tell you, is hugely important for the security of the UK, of Europe and of the US,» he said. «It is always important. It is particularly important at the moment with the situation going on in Ukraine. We know Russia's intent is always there. It's a constant threat.»
The visit comes weeks after the Russian spy ship Yantar was spotted loitering off the UK's coast, underscoring the ongoing security concerns.
Norwegian Prime Minister Store thanked base personnel for «your sacrifice, for your dedication and for the professional approach you have» during the joint visit, which marked the UK-Norway defense partnership.
Note: This article was created with Artificial Intelligence (AI).
