Forward Air Control Exercise

HC Deb 28 April 1988 vol 132 cc241-2W

Mr. Thomas

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence to what extent local press and hon. Members will be informed about the Forward Air Control exercise to be held in the Elan valley, Powys, from 11 to 13 May.

Mr. Freeman

It is normal practice to provide hon. Members with advance notice of any major exercise that is likely to have a significant effect on low-flying activity in their constituencies. The Press Association, local papers and local TV and radio stations are similarly informed about major exercises. Notification is not, however, given for all small exercises, such as the Forward Air Control exercise referred to, although this exercise may be mentioned in the formal notification concerning the annual OSEX exercise, to which it relates.