For once here’s an independent report – the 2006 Nimrod crash review - which successfully identifies the causes and names those responsible. Michael Evans, The Times Defence Editor open his report with these words:
“The Nimrod report is the most devastating attack on the Ministry of Defence and the defence industry in living memory.”
The report severely criticises the government, Ministry of Defence, and the defence contractors. The BBC’s report provides a synopsis of the failings and the reports recommendations. The main criticisms are of cost cutting that sacrificed safety and the poor organisational culture in the Ministry od Defence.
Just a couple of points to make about ultimate responsibility. For the cost cutting policy over safety, surely Gordon Brown as Chancellor bears direct responsibility, and then the sorry list of short-term Labour Defence Secretaries. Let’s look at their terms of office:
- Bob Ainsworth: 5 months
- John Hutton: 7 months
- Des Browne: 2 yrs
- John Reid: 1 yr
- Geoff Hoon: 5½ yrs
- George Robertson: 2½ yrs
Since May 2005 the country has had four Defence Secretaries. I leave you to draw your own conclusions.
