§ Mr. Dickensasked the Prime Minister if, in view of recent fatailities and accidents, she will consider introducing legislation to provide for a minimum level of competence for those permitted to take part in parachute jumps from aircraft; and if she will make a statement.
§ The Prime MinisterStatutory responsibility for the regulation of parachuting rests with the Civil Aviation Authority. Under article 41 of the Air Navigation Order 1985, no one may jump from an aircraft without the Civil Aviation Authority's permission. The Civil Aviation Authority is advised by the British Parachute Association, which exercises day-to-day control of the sport and sets basic training requirements for all parachutists. These requirements were recently reviewed and tightened.