THE Ministry of Defence (MOD) has confirmed it is considering closing two North Yorkshire air bases, including RAF Linton on Ouse near York, as part of massive cost-cutting plans. Nationally, RAF chiefs are considering axing 10,000 staff and up to five large air stations.

One option on the table is to close Linton-on-Ouse and RAF Leeming, and move all jet training to RAF Valley in Anglesey, raising fears for the future of about 700 jobs at Linton.

Vale of York MP Anne McIntosh described the reports as “alarming” and said she would be seeking reassurances over the future of the bases.

She said: “Linton-on-Ouse is absolutely crucial and is one of only two training stations.

“It trains all pilots, fixed wing and helicopter, for all the armed services.

“It also plays a crucial part in the local economy.”

Ms McIntosh also emphasised the role the air base played in the community.

“RAF Linton on Ouse helped out when we had floods and they helped out during the Selby rail crash,” she said. “I want to give them a big vote of confidence and secure their future.”

A spokesman for the MOD told The Press: “These are one of many proposals we are looking at as part of our spending plans.

“It is premature to say any of these things are going to happen, but they are being considered among other things.”

The plans for the two North Yorkshire bases are among a list of possible closures and mergers of bases being considered by air chiefs and are reportedly intended to pre-empt defence cuts promised by whichever party is in power after the next General Election.

Senior RAF officers believe that whichever party wins the general election it will have to make cuts to defence because of the economic situation.

In 2007, the then defence secretary Des Browne gave Ms McIntosh assurances over the long term future of Linton-on-Ouse, amidst concerns over financial constraints and an impending Government spending review.

At the time Ms McIntosh wrote to the Defence Secretary seeking clarification following reports from senior defence sources that RAF Linton-on-Ouse and RAF Leeming could be axed.