HC Deb 11 May 1959 vol 605 cc101-2W
76. Mr. G. Brown

asked the Minister of Supply whether he will make a statement about the recent loss of secret equipment as a result of an aeroplane crash in Turkey.

Mr. Aubrey Jones

The aircraft concerned was on one of a regular series of charter flights for my Department carrying equipment for the guided weapons range in Australia and was flying by a recognised route. There were certain secret items on board, including missiles and associated equipment for testing at Woomera.

Mail carried by the aircraft has been recovered, but as salvage of the cargo would not be possible instructions were given for it to be destroyed.

I am sure that the House would wish me to take this opportunity of expressing its sympathy to the relatives of the men who were lost in this accident. I would also like to express my high praise for the magnificent efforts of the Royal Air Force Mountain Rescue Team and the fine co-operation of the Turkish Air Force and other authorities.

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