HC Deb 18 February 1948 vol 447 c1132
10. Air-Commodore Harvey

asked the Secretary of State for Air if he proposes to re-establish the aerial bombing range at Calshot.

The Under-Secretary of State for Air (Mr. Geoffrey de Freitas)

Practice bombing has taken place off Calshot for over 20 years, and it is not proposed to alter either the use or the area of the range. Representations have, however, been received that it should be moved elsewhere and we are seeing what can be done to meet these representations.

Air-Commodore Harvey

Does not the Under-Secretary realise that because it has gone on for 20 years does not mean it should go on now; that it is a great menace to shipping and yachtsmen; and could they not find another place to carry out these exercises?

Mr. de Freitas

Without accepting the allegation that it is a menace, I would say that we are looking for another place. We are doing our best. If any hon. Member wants a bombing range in his constituency I will be pleased to consider it.

Colonel Gomme-Duncan

Would the hon. Gentleman assure the House that he is not selecting the Forth?

Mr. de Freitas

Yes, I can assure the hon. and gallant Member of that, because these squadrons are based at Calshot.

Colonel Gomme-Duncan

But will the Under-Secretary assure the Minister of Defence that the battleship "Rodney" will no longer be bombed in the Forth?

Mr. de Freitas

This Question refers to Calshot.