HC Deb 25 March 1959 vol 602 c1298
2. Mr. Swingler

asked the Secretary of State for Air to what extent flights of aircraft loaded with nuclear bombs are still continuing over United Kingdom territory.

Mr. Ward

The occasions on which nuclear weapons may be carried by aircraft over this country were described in the full statements made last year by my right hon. Friend the Lord Privy Seal and by the Prime Minister.

Mr. Swingler

I take it from that Answer that these flights are still continuing. Will the right hon. Gentleman now re-examine this policy? What is the purpose of these flights? Is he not aware that the American authorities have now learned the unwisdom of such flights and have definitely forbidden them over American territory, and why should we not now do likewise?

Mr. Ward

I said in reply to the hon. Gentleman in the House not long ago that I am informed that the Americans have given no such instructions.