HC Deb 28 June 1988 vol 136 cc221-2W
85. Mr. Foulkes

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what response he has received to his proposals to extend the areas in which very low flying exercises will take place.

Mr. Freeman

The United Kingdom low-flying system is continuously under review as efforts are made to spread activity more widely and evenly, thereby reducing disturbance in busier areas and contributing to overall safety. The changes about which I wrote recently to a number of hon. Members all have this aim in view.

87. Mr. French

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement regarding his policy on low-flying aircraft over Quedgeley and Hardwicke in Gloucestershire.

Mr. Freeman

Since 1 December 1987 the residential development at Quedgeley and Hardwicke has been incorporated within the avoidance area afforded to Gloucester city. Aircrew will accordingly make every effort to avoid overflying this area wherever possible.

Mr. Canavan

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what is the average weekly number of low-flying military aircraft using airspace in the Scottish Highlands.

Mr. Freeman

The information requested is not available, but the average weekly number of low-flying military aircraft movements using airspace in the Scottish Highlands in 1987 was 324.