HC Deb 03 December 1973 vol 865 c289W
Mr. Bishop

asked the Minister of State for Defence if he will review the policies affecting the use of Royal Air Force and other aircraft, especially in relation to training flights, in view of the public concern regarding the need for economy of fuel.

Mr. Kershaw

A wide range of economy measures affecting the use of Royal Air Force and other military aircraft have already been put into effect, and we shall continue to look for further ways to save fuel, but there is a certain level of flying which must be sustained in order to maintain basic flying proficiency and safety, as well as operational capability. Our economy measures are designed to ensure that this level is maintained at the expense of reductions in fuel consumption on other, less essential activities.