HC Deb 05 November 1959 vol 612 c80W
Mr. Wall

asked the Minister of Defence whether he will make a statement on the future of Coastal Command.

Mr. Watkinson

After a full review of the present arrangements, the following decisions have been reached:

  1. (1) The shore-based maritime air forces will continue to form part of the Royal Air Force, and Coastal Command will continue as a separate Royal Air Force command.
  2. (2) In maritime operations or exercises, the senior naval commander in each area, at home and overseas, will decide the operational tasks on which shore-based maritime aircraft are to be employed, and will give the necessary orders to the senior maritime air force commander in the area concerned.