HC Deb 14 February 1968 vol 758 c346W
67. Mr. Lipton

asked the Secretary of State for Defence what action he is taking to provide safety precautions for Vulcan bomber crews as effective as those provided for their pilots.

Mr. Merlyn Rees:

The practicability of providing ejection seats for the rear crew of V-bombers was examined twice during their earlier years in service, but on each occasion was rejected after careful consideration, though in 1964 it was decided to fit swivel seats which enable a more rapid escape to be made. The question of ejection seats for the rear crew is being examined again, with particular reference to possible technical developments and to current consideration of the future of the V force in the context of the reshaping of our air forces.