HC Deb 11 June 1975 vol 893 cc186-7W
Mr. Frank Allaun

asked the Secretary of State for Defence whether and when he gave permission for the use of Wethersfield air base by five United States U-2 planes; what is the purpose of their presence there; whether he will ask for their withdrawal, particularly in view of the possible effect on the international peace and arms reduction conference this summer; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. John

The use of RAF Wethersfield for this purpose was approved earlier this year. The aircraft in question are engaged in a three months' operational trial over allied countries of a precision high altitude navigation system. They are not taking photographs and they are not armed. In these circumstances we have no intention of asking for their withdrawal in advance of the termination of the trial.