Local economic impact from U.S. air bases decline

[The Patriot]

Local economic impact from U.S. air bases decline

09-22-2011 08:22 AM

Published:
Thu, 2011-09-22 16:15


Local economic impact from U.S. air bases decline


Heather Joy


feature_story_photo:
An F-15E Strike Eagle taxis at RAF Lakenheath. Airman Cory Payne/U.S. Air Force






Local economic impact from U.S. air bases decline

Last night community leaders last night rallied to defend the value of the county’s two American air bases despite figures that show the bases economic impact has declined by more than 84 million pounds it was reported today, Thursday, September 22 by the East Anglian Daily Times.
Millions of pounds are injected into the local economy by both RAFs Lakenheath and Mildenhall. Most of these funds are the result of spending by base staff and commercial contracts.
According to figures obtained by the East Anglian Daily Times the total value from the bases declined from $1,045 million in 2009 to $913.5 million in 2010 – a 12% decline. The largest drop was almost $90 million from RAF Lakenheath while the value to the economy from RAF Mildenhall dropped from $375.8 million to $332.7 million.
Despite these figures Forest Heath District Council’s Market ward member John McGhee told the EADT, “The impact might be down 10% but they are very, very good for the area.” He has noticed no decline in the number of service staff out and about in Mildenhall.
Lieutenant Colonel Michael Bennett, 100th Comptroller Squadron commander said that the economic impact analysis showed that the contributions by individuals and the value of indirect jobs created on the local economy increased during fiscal year 2010.
“The one area detailed where a decrease is identified is in the spending by US Air Force units, organizations and activities on materials, equipment and supplies,” Bennett explained to the EADt, “This is shown across the board for U.S. Air Forces in Europe installations.”
Bennett added, “RAF Mildenhall is committed to contributing to the local economy and our host nation. Our investment is promoting growth in the local economy is part of our obligation to our hosts in return for the continuous support they have always bestowed.”
“We take every opportunity to show we are good neighbors and our mission would not be possible without the support of our gracious hosts.”
Matthew Hancock, West Suffolk MP said, “This year of all years, we must remember that the benefit not just economic. Aircraft based at RAF Mildenhall played a significant part I support of the operation in Libya, which saved thousands of lives and rid that country of a tyrannical dictator. Actions like this serve to remind me what our American allies do to help keep us safe.”








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