Virginia Crosbie, the Conservative MP for Ynys Môn, has been selected as one of only a handful of MPs to join the Armed Forces Parliamentary Scheme.

This scheme provides military training to MPs of the UK Parliament. The course seeks to educate representatives through first-hand experience, thereby improving the quality of debate on military issues.

MPs spend 30 days spread across the year completing an intensive training course and an embedded attachment, after which they graduate to the same level as a Major, Squadron Leader or Lt Colonel depending on their choice of Armed Forces branch. They receive the same level of training as regular service personnel and have to be deemed medically fit to join the course.

The scheme was started in 1989 by Sir Neil Thorne, a Conservative MP.

Although members can join any branch, Ms Crosbie will join the Royal Air Force.

Virginia said: “I’m really looking forward to being able to understand first-hand the challenges our brave service personnel face - without doubt the finest in the world. This will ensure I speak with a stronger voice when it comes to championing our local heroes at RAF Valley.”

“RAF Valley is a key part of the community here on Anglesey and I was keen therefore to do everything I can to gain a greater understanding of the service and its personnel. I am committed to doing everything I can to champion the base at the very heart of Government and ensure it is sustained for the long term,” she said.

“My grandparents and great-grandfather served in the Royal Air Force and they would be incredibly proud to see me graduate as a Squadron Leader.”

Station Commander Chris Moon of RAF Valley gave his congratulations, saying the scheme “encourages engagement and understanding between our Armed Forces and elected members who ultimately decide how we are to be structured and utilised in order to protect the UK and our allies.”

“I look forward to hosting Virginia and her fellow members here at RAF Valley where we continue to play a critical role, training pilots for the RN and next generation RAF as well as our international partners.”