The Reds are safe

[Jon H]

After signing an e-pettition on the No.10 website to "Save the Red Arrows" I received the following email from Tony himself... Hmm?

The e-petition asking the Prime Minister to "continue funding for the Royal Air Force Aerobatics Team - The Red Arrows" is on-going. This is a response in advance of the closing date from the Prime Minister, Tony Blair.

Thank you for signing the petition on the No.10 website calling for the maintenance of the Red Arrows. It is a sign of the place they hold in the national affections that so many people have joined you in signing it - one of the highest numbers since the e-petition service began. That's why I wanted to reply personally. It's also why I am replying before the petition officially closes, in order to reassure people who are clearly concerned.

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. Obviously it is this review which prompted fears that the Red Arrows might be scrapped.

However, like you, the Government recognises 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. I was lucky enough to see their extraordinary skills myself only last year at the Farnborough Air Show.

More importantly, the Red Arrows have maintained public support for the Royal Air Force, encouraged recruitment, acted as ambassadors for Britain in the world and promoted British industry for many years. So I am pleased to assure you that this government fully intends to keep the Red Arrows flying.

Thank you for signing this petition, and I hope you get a chance to see the Red Arrows yourself soon.

Yours sincerely,
Tony Blair

Red Arrows display dates for 2007
PM pays the Red Arrows a flying visit
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If you also signed, expect a similar (identical) email soon.

[Craig.]

Not a big shock really.
I know its perhaps a little out there to say. But I think the end of the red arrows would be the end to a lot of airshows. As they are why a lot of non enthusiasts visit the show. Much like Americans visit shows for the Blue Angels. I love the reds, to this day I have not seen another team that can match them in my opinion. It would cost the RAF and the MOD far more to get rid of them than it would to keep them on.

[Hagar]

After signing an e-pettition on the No.10 website to "Save the Red Arrows" I received the following email from Tony himself... Hmm?

I doubt that very much as by all accounts our illustrious leader is totally computer illiterate. Probably one of his minions.

Anyway this is good news - until the next review of course. Not sure I like the idea of government by petition.

[Saitek]

Yeah I got the note too; came here to post it actually.

[Jon H]

I doubt that very much as by all accounts our illustrious leader is totally computer illiterate. Probably one of his minions.
Anyway this is good news - until the next review of course. Not sure I like the idea of government by petition.

My thoughts exactly.

[Saitek]

He didn't need to write it - he just had to have the nod and yes to it.

[ozzy72]

I just found the email in my inbox

[expat]

Must be a selected few , nothing in my in box :-?

Matt

[HawkerTempest5]

Good news indeed. Now we need a poll to make sure they don't scrap the BBMF instead!

[F3Hadlow]

Of course they weren't going to scrap them, irrespective of any petition. This gets wheeled out every year.