§ 22. Sir GEORGE PENNYasked the Under-Secretary of State for Air what utility there is in the policy of close flying; and whether in view of the danger which it entails, he will give instructions to discontinue such formation flying?
§ Mr. MONTAGUEThe late War showed conclusively that formation flying was essential for the mutual protection of aircraft against the enemy and its effective development undoubtedly resulted in a marked reduction in casualties. Its practice in time of peace is therefore indispensable. The training regulations of the Royal Air Force provide for the observance of minimum distances between aircraft when flying in formation, and I can assure the hon. Member that every possible care is taken to remove the risk of collision. I may add that collisions between aircraft flying in formation have been very few.
§ Sir G. PENNYMay I draw the hon. Gentleman's attention to the casualty at Chichester recently, and will he state the minimum distance required for flying in close formation?
§ Mr. MONTAGUEI cannot answer that question without notice. Of course, I know all the facts with regard to the accident mentioned by the hon. Gentleman.