I do not have confidence UK is safe from Russian threats, says Swinney
The first minister speaks to BBC Scotland News ahead of the SNP's annual conference in Aberdeen.
By BBC News
John Swinney has said he does not have confidence that the UK is safe from possible Russian threats.
The Scottish first minister made the comments in an interview with BBC Scotland News before the SNP’s annual conference in Aberdeen.
Mr Swinney said he was deeply concerned about what he described as insufficient coastal and offshore protection, particularly around the waters north of Shetland, where he said there had been notable Russian activity.
“I don’t believe we maintain nearly the presence in those areas that is necessary today,” he said.
He added that the UK Government had a duty to protect the country, but said the current defence posture did not give him sufficient assurance about national safety.
His comments followed warnings from MI5 director general Sir Ken McCallum, who described Russia as the UK’s top aggressor.
The UK’s nuclear submarine fleet is based at Faslane, west of Glasgow. Mr Swinney rejected suggestions that Scottish independence would weaken the country’s security, arguing instead that it would create more options for defence cooperation.
He referred to international defence partnerships, including Canada’s participation in the European Union’s SAFE defence initiative.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham has said his government will strengthen defence and invest in the UK’s hard power and deterrence. He has also said it would avoid escalating tensions with Russia, adding that the UK did not seek conflict.