§ Mr. Alex CarlileTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will institute an inquiry into the potential for RAF low-flying training to take place other than over mid-Wales; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Kenneth CarlisleThe United Kingdom low-flying system is kept continuously under review with the aim of spreading activity more widely so as to reduce disturbance in busier areas and improve overall safety.
§ Mr. Alex CarlileTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will institute an inquiry into the potential for RAF low-flying training to take place outside the United Kingdom on flying ranges leased from or licensed by foreign Governments; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Kenneth CarlisleThe majority of operational low-flying training, at heights below 250 ft, is already carried out outside the United Kingdom. Further opportunities for low-flying training abroad will continue to be given very careful consideration. In each case, however, a balance has to be struck between the advantages of the particular overseas location and the extra cost and dislocation resulting from overseas deployment and the need for aircraft to carry out adequate training in the theatre where they are based.