HC Deb 30 June 1989 vol 155 c584W
Mr. Salmond

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many bombing and firing runs have been made on Rosehearty range in each year since 1979.

Mr. Neubert

Bombing and firing runs have been made on Rosehearty range as follows:

  • 1979 to 1986—No records available.
  • 1987—8,332 passes.
  • 1988—8,547 passes.
  • 1989 (to May)—4,363 passes.

Mr. Salmond

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what increases in the hours of aerial bombing and firing activity at Rosehearty bombing range are planned for the month of July; on which dates these activities will Lake place; how many and what types of aircraft will take part; and what is the purpose of the additional activity.

Mr. Neubert

From 8 to 23 July, while Tain range is closed for maintenance work, the operating hours at Rosehearty range will be as follows:

  • Monday 0900–1630 and 1730–2200 (normally 0830–1200 and 1300–1630)
  • Tuesday 0900–1700 (normally 0830–1200 and 1300–1630)
  • Wednesday 0900–1630 and 1730–2200 (normally 08301200 and 1300–1630)
  • Thursday 0900- 1 700 (normally 0830–1200 and 1300–1630)
  • Friday 0900–1700 (normally 0830–1200 and 1300–1630)

The range will close for maintenance from 24 July until 11 August (except for 2 and 3 August).

Aircraft types using the range will be Jaguar. Buccaneer, F111, Tornado and Hawk. It is not possible to say in advance the numbers of aircraft involved, but the range utilisation is not expected to be greater than normal.

A local press release about the evening opening will be made during the week beginning 3 July.

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