§ Mr. Gwynfor Evansasked the Secretary of State for Defence what steps he is taking to prevent low-flying aircraft from terrifying children and adults in Kidwelly and other places in Carmarthenshire.
§ Mr. Merlyn ReesWe are very conscious of the need to cause the minimum overall disturbance, consistent with operational and safety requirements. Low flying is an essential part of operational training but no more is done than is strictly necessary. Each flight has to be authorised in writing and carried out no lower than is necessary for the particular training being undertaken. Pilots are briefed to avoid flying over towns, including Kidwelly, below 2,000 feet. It is not, however, practicable for low-flying aircraft completely to avoid all inhabited areas, and I very much regret any disturbance that may occur from time to time in Carmarthenshire. If the hon. Member has any specific case in mind I will gladly look into it, if he will let me have the date and time of the incident.