§ Mr. MitchellTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what assessment he has made of the impact of the adoption of the proposals of the European Commission for the creation of a common European sky on existing provisions and agreements, concerning the powers of Her Majesty's Government to make such arrangements with NATO allies. [139063]
§ Mr. HoonThe Commission's proposals are still being developed. A formal presentation of the proposals is expected to be made to the Stockholm Summit in March 2001. The need to ensure sufficient access to airspace for both civil and military purposes will be highlighted, as will the need to respect national security and defence requirements. Bringing together civil and military expertise at European level, in co—operation with NATO, is an important element of the work being undertaken. I10W am content that our active engagement in the process will ensure that the defence needs of the UK and our allies will not be compromised.