HC Deb 08 November 1954 vol 532 c838
7. Mr. Emrys Hughes

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what arrangements he has come to concerning the future use of the German coast for bombing practice for the Royal Air Force.

Mr. Turton

The only range used for bombing by the Royal Air Force on the German Coast is that near Cuxhaven. The arrangements governing the use of this range are contained in Command Paper 8684 of November, 1952.

Mr. Hughes

Is the Minister not aware that there is considerable indignation among our German friends about the bombing of this coast, which is a bird sanctuary? Is it not time, in view of the new German tactical air force, that we had some reciprocal agreement that we do not bomb the German coast on condition that they do not bomb ours?

Mr. Turton

An exchange of letters was recently completed with the German Federal Government whereby we have undertaken to give 24 hours' advance notice of night as well as of day bombing. The Americans have given a similar undertaking.