HC Deb 30 May 1956 vol 553 cc211-2
6. Mr. Beswick

asked the Secretary of State for Air the reasons for the grounding of the Canberra and Valiant aircraft; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Birch

Faults have occurred in the electrical system which controls the tailplane actuator in the Canberra, and two Marks have been grounded while modifications are made. Flying of the Valiant was suspended as a precautionary measure after one of these aircraft had crashed on 11th May. Certain modifications are being made to the electrical wiring system of the aircraft. Both Canberras and Valiants are returning to flying as they are modified. All Valiants in Bomber Command are likely to have been modified by the end of this week.