HC Deb 15 May 1986 vol 97 c542W
Mr. Donald Stewart

asked the Secretary of State for Defence whether he plans to allow the United States air force to deploy F-111 aircraft at Boscombe Down

Mr. Stanley

The United States Air Force deploys F-111 aircraft to Boscombe Down from time to time on a temporary basis, in order to give US-based crews experience of operating in Europe and to demonstrate their ability to reinforce NATO rapidly. Boscombe Down is designated a "Colocated Operating Base", which means that in times of tension or war the base would be shared with the USAF.

Mr. Donald Stewart

asked the Secretary of State for Defence whether any civil airports in Scotland have been authorised for use by United States air force fighter planes or bombers.

Mr. Stanley

I shall answer shortly.