141. Mr. B. Harrisonasked the Secretary of State for Air whether he is aware that a practice bomb fell from a jet aircraft at Stoney Hills, near Burnham-on-Crouch, on Monday, 19th November; and if, for the safety of the hon. Member for Maldon's constituents, he will now ban the use of the range on the Dengie Flats.
§ Mr. BirchA3-lb. practice bomb fell from an aircraft of the United States Air Force. No one was hurt and there was no material damage. I greatly regret this incident, the cause of which is being investigated by the United States Air Force, but I cannot agree that it warrants the closure of the Dengie Range, which is required for essential training.