Lib Dem MSP speaks out on future of Knox Academy CCF

10.30.00am GMT Thu 25th Mar 2010

Jim Hume MSP, Liberal Democrat MSP for the South of Scotland, has spoken out on the unclear future of the Combined Cadet Force at Knox Academy in Haddington.

The MSP made the comments during a Scottish Parliament debate celebrating the 150th anniversary of the Armed Forces’ Cadet Movement.

Jim Hume said:

“This debate served to highlight the success of this 150 year old tradition. We should be immensely proud that it exists and it is perhaps an indication of its success and the enthusiasm of the cadets, schools, parents and others that we are this year celebrating the movement’s 150th anniversary.

“The life of a cadet will be filled with adventure and new experiences, but cadet forces are underpinned by a firm set of principles - equality, fairness, teamwork and public spirit. These are all the qualities we would want to instil in our young people.

“I would take this opportunity to ask the local authority, the school staff at Knox Academy and the MOD to work together to come to some sort of reasonable conclusion that won’t leave young people without a cadet force. Everything must be done to reach a solution.

“It is incumbent upon us to make sure that our young people are given the valuable opportunities afforded to them through the cadet forces, and let’s hope that the cadets go on for another 150 years.”