Paying back the loans early was a sensible financial move.
These were loans given to NATS when it was in a dire financial situation, at very high rates. Paying them back at point when the company could afford to take the hit will save money in the long term on the interest payments. It also was a huge factor in the last re-valuation of our share value showing an increase - even against a fall in operating profit.
I'm against closing the scheme... but less red herrings please.