HC Deb 16 November 1977 vol 939 cc218-9W
Mr. Rose

asked the Secretary of State for Trade what action he is taking to secure compensation for relatives and dependants of the 46 Britons killed in the mid-air collision over France in March 1973 from the French authorities.

Mr. Judd

I have been asked to reply.

There are now two actions in progress in the French courts: a suit in the Administrative Court against the French Ministry of Defence and Ministry of Equipment, and another in the Penal Court against "persons unknown" to determine the liability of the military ground controllers and the Spantax pilot. The matter is therefore still sub judice. However, the Embassy in Paris is keeping in close touch with the French authorities, and most recently asked them on 14th November for information about the position reached. A reply is awaited.