§ Mr. Hayhoeasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he is satisfied with the contingency plans for dealing with a major air disaster in the Heathrow area; when last a full exercise was held to test these plans; and when next a similar exercise is planned.
§ Mr. Merlyn Rees:I am satisfied that all the authorities and services concerned co-operate fully in planning to deal with a major air disaster in the Heathrow area. The British Airports Authority is required as a condition of its licence from the Civil Aviation Authority to hold an annual exercise. The last exercise was held on 25th April this year and another one will be held in 1979.