§ Mr. Frank Allaunasked the Secretary of State for Defence why Starfighters flew at very low levels over Salford during the afternoon of 18 May; and, in view of the concern caused by such flights, if he will take steps to stop them.
§ Mr. WigginThese Starfighter aircraft of the German Air Force were visiting the United Kingdom under the NATO squadron exchange scheme. In the course of their flight on 18 May the weather deteriorated suddenly and the aircraft passed inadvertently over Salford, but immediately they became aware of this they climbed to reduce noise and changed course.
The matter has been investigated and I am satisfied that there was no deliberate contravention of the regulations. Nevertheless, I very much regret the disturbance that was caused.