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Former Sea Lords fire warning shots over future of naval base
Any moves to close Portsmouth's naval base would be irresponsible and a stunning blow to the morale of the Royal Navy, former Sea Lords have said.
Sir Julian Oswald and Sir Henry Leach have come out in support of Portsmouth after speculation the new coalition government may look to close the base.
Their comments are warning shots as the new government embarks on a defence budget review which has led to fears of cuts in the Royal Navy.
The Ministry of Defence dismissed the claims, but it remains to be seen whether Portsmouth naval base may be in for cuts under the Strategic Defence and Security Review taking place this year.
Sir Julian, who was First Sea Lord from 1989 to 1993, told The News: 'Portsmouth is the premier naval base.
'To close it or severely cut services there would be a stunning blow to morale of the Royal Navy.'
Sir Julian, 76, who lives near Fareham, added: 'To lose Portsmouth would be a travesty.
'So much money has been invested in Portsmouth recently, it's got a very interesting future with the future carriers coming here.
'I really can't see why any government would look to close it now.
'And I very much hope cuts are not on the cards.'
Sir Julian's comments were echoed by Sir Henry, First Sea Lord from 1979 to 1982.
The 86-year-old, who was the professional head of the Royal Navy at the time of the Falklands War, said: 'I think we have now invested so much of the naval budget in Portsmouth naval base that it would be extremely irresponsible to close it.
'It's always possible Portsmouth could face cuts in this review but if they were going to close it, they would have done so ages ago. It wouldn't make responsible sense to close it now.'
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Weather for Portsmouth
Wednesday 15 February 2012
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Temperature: 4 C to 10 C
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