Low-flying Aircraft

HC Deb 27 June 1988 vol 136 cc93-4W

Dr. Thomas

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what recent representations he has received concerning military low-flying exercises in Wales.

Mr. Freeman

Between 1 April and 31 May 1988 the Ministry of Defence received 279 inquiries or complaints from Wales about low-flying military aircraft.

Dr. Thomas

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence (1) what minimum height is specified for military jet aircraft performing simulated attacks on RAF St. Athan; and within what range of airfield flying at the minimum height is permitted;

(2) what minimum height is specified for military jet aircraft performing simulated attacks on RAF Valley; and within what range of the airfield flying at the minimum height is permitted;

(3) what minimum height is specified for military jet aircraft performing simulated attacks on RAF Brawdy; and within what range of the airfield flying at the minimum height is permitted.

Mr. Freeman

[holding answer 13 June 1988]: The information requested is as follows:

RAF station	Height
RAF Brawdy	— 200 ft
RAF Valley	— 100 ft (single aircraft)
	500 ft (formations)
RAF St. Athan	— 100 ft (single aircraft)
	500 ft (formations)

Such activity is permitted only within the boundaries of the stations themselves.

Mr. Adley

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if any low-flying aircraft were in the immediate vicinity of the A303 road at the Wylye bypass, between 12.00 and 13.30 on Thursday 16 June; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Freeman

[holding answer 23 June 1988]: Two Harriers from RAF Wittering were operating near the A303 Wylye bypass between 12.00 and 13.30 on 16 June. Two RAF Jaguars from RAF Coltishall were also operating in the vicinity between 11.30 and 11.50 on the same day.