HC Deb 15 December 1955 vol 547 cc227-8W
84. Mr. R. E. Winterbottom

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Air if his attention has been called to the Lodge Moor Hospital air crash; and if he will restrict or prohibit aircraft flying over Britain from carrying live ammunition.

Mr. Ward

I learned of this accident with deep regret. I am sure that the House will wish to join with me in expressing sympathy with the relatives of the deceased, and with the injured. Hon. Members will already be aware of the message of sympathy which my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs has received from the United States Ambassador.

None of the casualties in the accident at Lodge Moor Hospital resulted from the explosion of ammunition. It would be wrong to forbid the carriage of live ammunition by operational aircraft flying from bases in the United Kingdom as this must interfere with necessary operational training.

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