Renowned Aerobatic Team Spared

British Prime Minister Tony Blair has declared the future of the Red Arrows is safe -- after weeks of speculation the Royal Air Force aerobatics team could be disbanded.

Many were worried that the display team could be slashed as part of Ministry of Defense (MoD) cutbacks. But in a written response to an online petition, Blair said there were no plans to disband the team.

"The government recognizes just what an important role the Red Arrows play in our national life", said Blair. "I am pleased to be able to give you good news. There are no plans to change the funding for the Red Arrows, let alone to disband them."

"It is important, of course, that the MoD looks at the full range of its spending plans as part of its routine financial planning, to ensure that taxpayers' money is spent where our Armed Forces most need it," the Prime Minister continued. "However, like you, the government recognizes just what an important role the Red Arrows play in our national life. As the world's premier aerobatic team, they have thrilled millions of spectators over many years."

Councillor Alan Caine, of West Lindsey District Council, said the announcement was "good news". 

"They are one of this country's greatest ambassadors, they go all over the world," Caine told the BBC, adding he hoped the squadron would stay at RAF Scampton. "I think they're fantastic and that is appreciated generally but I do worry about them leaving Lincolnshire and particularly West Lindsey."

Since the world-famous squadron was created in 1965, it has completed more than 4,000 displays in 52 countries and draws on pilots who have often been involved in overseas operations in war zones such as Iraq and Afghanistan.

FMI: www.raf.mod.uk/reds/