DOZENS of peace campaigners rallied at Prestwick Airport today to protest against the Scottish government-owned site’s continued use by the US military.

The civilian airport has long served as a stopping-off point for US aircraft en route to mainland Europe since the years following the second world war.

It has been a source of controversy since, not least in 2004, when it was used to refuel flights carrying those kidnapped by the US en route to Guantanamo Bay for torture and indefinite detention without trial.

The recent US and Israeli attacks on Iran have reignited the debate, with First Minister John Swinney facing calls to ban the US military flights.

Mr Swinney had sought a meeting with UK ministers on the issue, but the meeting never took place amid complaints at the attendance of Scotland Secretary Douglas Alexander.

“I don’t need to be babysat by the Secretary of State for Scotland — I am the First Minister of Scotland and I will not have it,” said Mr Swinney.

Ayrshire CND, Ayrshire Global Justice Now and Stop the War Scotland wrote to Mr Swinney, saying: “Prestwick Airport is owned by the Scottish government. 

“The UK government claims it is not responsible.

“The time for words is over — action is urgently needed to stop Prestwick Airport being complicit in an illegal war with devastating human consequences.”

Backing the protest, Ayrshire CND secretary Arthur West told the Star: “Recent information shows that some of the planes passing through the airport in recent weeks have gone on to be involved directly in US military action in the Middle East.

“We feel it is vital to oppose the use of our local airport by the military of the reckless and immoral Trump administration.”