§ Mr. David Steelasked the Secretary of State for Defence if the RAF's intention to cut back fuel consumption will include a reduction in the number of low-flying exercises in areas like the Borders.
§ Mr. JohnLow-flying exercises are an essential part of operational training. While the RAF is making its full contribution to the conservation of fuel it is unlikely that the volume of low-level392W flying training will be significantly reduced on this account in the border counties or elsewhere. The border areas, representing about 4.7 per cent. of the total land area of the United Kingdom, receive only 3.5 per cent. of the total number of low-level flights made each year.