HC Deb 28 February 1966 vol 725 cc194-5W
Mr. Horner

asked the Secretary of State for Defence what is the estimated cost of the equipment damaged and destroyed and the structural damage suffered in the fire at Neatishead Radar Station on 16th February.

Mr. Millan

The exact extent of the damage caused by the fire to buildings and equipment is being determined by the Royal Air Force Board of Inquiry. Until the findings of the Board are available, I am unable to give an estimate of the cost of the damage. However, preliminary enquiries show that the original investment in equipment and buildings was about one million pounds and extensive damage has been caused by the fire.

Mr. Horner

asked the Secretary of State for Defence whether, in view of the fact that the Royal Air Force Board of Inquiry into the fire at Neatishead Radar Station will be reporting on the fire precaution arrangements at the station, he will arrange for the Fire Brigades Union to be represented at the inquiry on behalf of the relatives of the firemen who lost their lives and those who were injured.

Mr. Millan

Royal Air Force Boards of Inquiry are domestic investigations conducted in accordance with statutory rules. Civilian witnesses may be represented by a lawyer when they are giving evidence. The Board may hear evidence from any persons who they think will help them in their inquiries and if the Fire Brigades Union wish to give evidence they should get in touch with the President of the Board of Inquiry.