§ 27. Mr. Hiltonasked the Secretary of State for Defence what instructions have been given in order to prevent a repetition of the two serious mishaps which have taken place during parachute exercises in Norfolk during the past two years.
§ Mr. H. FraserA detailed examination is now being made of the safety criteria of all dropping zones. I have given instructions that the Bridgham Heath dropping zone is not to be used until this examination is complete.
§ Mr. HiltonI am grateful for that reply, but is the Minister aware that during an exercise just over a year ago paratroops were dropped straddling the main railway line when a train was coming along? Fortunately nobody was seriously injured, although some were slightly injured. Is he also aware that a few weeks ago a cargo of about five tons of dummy ammunition was dropped on a railway track in front of an oncoming train, which was fortunately stopped just before reaching the ammunition, and, further, that on neither occasion had consultations taken place between British Railways and those responsible for the exercise? Does he not agree that if we are to prevent derailment and perhaps serious incidents it is essential at least that consultations should take place between his Department and British Railways before these exercises are held?
§ Mr. FraserI am looking into this matter. For the meantime I can give the hon. Member at least the assurance that there will be no droppings in this area.