HL Deb 25 July 1969 vol 304 cc1205-6WA
The Earl of CORK and ORRERY

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What do the initials Q.R.A. stand for in the congratulatory signal from C.A.S. to H.Q. Strike Command sent on 30th June, 1969, and circulated in column 762 of the Official Report of Tuesday last 22nd July.

The PARLIAMENTARY UNDERSECRETARY of STATE for DEFENCE, R.A.F. (Lord Winterbottom)

The initials Q.RA. used in the congratulatory signal sent by the Chief of the Air Staff to Headquarters Strike Command, on 30th June, 1969, stand for "Quick Reaction Alert". This is a term, which would, of course, have been well understood by those to whom the signal was addressed. It signifies the state of immediate readiness for operations at which V-bomber aircraft and crews were required to be maintained when the responsibility for providirg the United Kingdom's contribution to the strategic nuclear deterrent rested with the Royal Air Force.