Edward Mountain MSP today called on the UK Government and Scottish Government to work together to create a Covid-19 Testing Plan to ensure Armed Services personnel can return home for Christmas.
The call was made following an announcement from the Scottish Government that a widespread testing regime would be introduced to ensure University students can to travel home for the Christmas period.
Highlands and Islands MSP, Edward Mountain MSP commented:
“Many young soldiers who have been posted away from their families will be looking forward to returning home for Christmas.”
“Considering that many of them will have been helping in the battle against the pandemic, it is only right that we find a way to make this happen.”
“I believe a testing system should be considered to allow armed services personnel to travel home, which in many cases will be a long way away from where they are currently serving.”
“Having been in this position myself as a former soldier, I know how lonely it can be when you can’t return home to enjoy a brief respite from all the rigors of service.”
“This is an important issue in the Highlands and Islands, especially for those stationed at Fort George or our RAF bases in Moray.”
The Highlands and Islands MSP served in the British Army from 1980 to 1992 in the Blues & Royals, part of the Household Cavalry, following in the footsteps of his father before him. Edward’s son is continuing the family tradition, currently serving in the Blues & Royals Regiment too.
Edward Mountain’s military service took him to Cyprus, Uganda, Germany, Canada, United Kingdom, Spain and Egypt. After leaving the army in 1992, he continued to serve as a reservist for a further six years.
