At least one regular unit is understood to be seeking the help of a public relations firm. It is common knowledge that contingency plans are being drawn up for a range of cutback options. That leaves the Royal Scots very exposed. The regiment has only 416 officers and men instead of the 527 it is supposed to be able to field, and compares poorly with the King's Own Scottish Borderers and the other Lowland outfit, the Royal Highland Fusiliers. The MoD passes down the required savings and the army allows the council to wield the axe.
Ministers can then deny involvement in painful choices.
A spokeswoman for the army in Scotland denied that any Scottish battalion was targeted for amalgamation or disbandment.