Letter in FT today from Jim McAusian, General Sec of BALPA entitled 'Search and Rescue will not be compromised.'
What caught my eye was his argument that the employment of civvy firms in the SAR role will free up 'scarce' mil assets 'to be deployed where they are most needed.'
I'm fairly sure this was the same assertion put forward by parties with vested interests in the retention of work at DARA St Athan when in fact depth hubs such as at Marham were taking work away.
IMHO, UK PLC and vote hungry politicians seem happy for Service personel to be deployed automotons with no need for time with family or any stability. Despite the latest 'warfighter first' mantra, there has to be some respite for the guys and gals!