§ Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Secretary of State for Defence whether he is now able to make a further statement in connection with the extension of the RAF's low-flying training area ; and what action has been, or will be taken to publicise this and advise the public of their rights of legal objections and payments of compensation.
§ Mr. Wellbeloved:I refer my hon. Friend to the reply I gave to the Question by my hon. Friend the Member for Gloucestershire, West (Mr. Watkinson) on 12th December 1978.—[Vol. 960, c. 149-50.]
The Ministry of Defence will examine complaints about low-flying aircraft if the date, time and place of the particular flight are quoted ; it will help greatly if information can also be provided on the number and type of aircraft involved, any markings seen, the direction of flight and the estimated height.
If members of the public wish to claim compensation for loss, injury or damage thought to have been caused by military low flying aircraft they should write to the Ministry of Defence Claims Commission, Queen Anne's Chambers, 41 Tothill Street, London, SW1A 9LB. Names of witnesses should be provided and the facts of the incident should be given together with details of the alleged loss, injury or damage. If livestock is involved, veterinary evidence is required and claimants should also consult the National Farmers' Union to obtain details of the procedure 197W which has been agreed with the Claims Commission.—[Vol. 960, c. 149–50.]