THE number of soldiers in Scotland will increase but at a level far below previous suggestions, says the Ministry Of Defence.

About 700 troops will be sent from Germany under UK basing plans expected to be revealed this week to MPs.

Former Defence Secretary Liam Fox announced in 2011 that the size of the Army in Scotland would increase from about 3500 to 8500 to offset the closure of RAF bases at Leuchars and Kinloss.

He also outlined proposals for a new base at Kirknewton, near Edinburgh, but this is now expected to be dropped and RAF Leuchars is set for a reprieve.

An MoD spokesman said: "We will make an announcement about our re-basing troops from Germany shortly but we expect the total numbers of soldiers in Scotland to increase."