Mr. Robert HughesTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence (1) what invitations have been issued to the South African air force to participate in the Royal Air Force 75th anniversary at Fairford on 24 and 25 July and on what basis; and what response has been received;
(2) whether aircraft and/or crews will be participating at the RAF's 75th anniversary on 24 and 25 July from (a) the South African air force and (b) citizen force aircraft.
§ Mr. HanleyI refer the hon. Member to the announcement made by my right hon. and learned Friend the Secretary of State for Defence on 17 June,Official Report, column 1006. The RAF benevolent fund has also issued an invitation to the South African chief of air staff. We understand that no South African aircraft—civilian or military—are able to take part in the airshow, but the South African CAS will attend.