RAF Stations

HC Deb 11 December 1974 vol 883 cc194-5W

Mr. Tebbit

asked the Secretary of State for Defence if he will list the 12 RAF stations in the United Kingdom which he intends to close.

Mr. John:

I can add nothing to the answer I gave on 9th December to a similar Question from the hon. Member for Ayr (Mr. Younger).—[Vol. 883, c. 62–3.]

Mr. Trotter

asked the Secretary of State for Defence what is the current number of RAF stations; and what was the number in 1964.

Mr. John

There were 225 RAF flying and ground stations in the United Kingdom and overseas in 1964. The current total is 154.

Mrs. Winifred Ewing

asked the Secretary of State for Defence which RAF stations in the United Kingdom will be closed in accordance with the defence review statement.

Mr. John

I can add nothing to the answer I gave on 9th December to a similar Question from the hon. Member for Ayr (Mr. Younger).—[Vol. 883, c.62–3.]

Mrs. Winifred Ewing

asked the Secretary of State for Defence to what extent the proposed reduction in maritime patrol aircraft will be reflected in a reduction in the strength of RAF personnel at RAF Kinloss.

Mr. John

Some reduction in the global force of maritime patrol aircraft is anticipated as a result of the revised tasks envisaged from our review of defence commitments. Details of the consequences of these reductions must await the outcome of the consultations with our partners and allies mentioned in my right hon. Friend's statement on 3rd December.

Mr. Biffen

asked the Secretary of State for Defence what will be the impact on RAF Tern Hill or the defence review commitment to reduce by one-quarter the planned helicopter force.

Mr. John

The implications in the support field of the major policy decisions announced on 3rd December by my right hon. Friend are still being examined. It is too early to say what will be the effect of these decisions on individual RAF stations.