§ Mr. WinnickTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence when his Department first learned of the location of the remains of Sergeant John Gilders of the RAF; if the family were duly notified once the information was known to the authorities; and what action is being taken to ensure that the remains of other airmen who died in action within the United Kingdom are located and given a proper burial.
416W
§ Mr. SoamesMy Department was notified by the Coroner in Ashford, Kent on 22 April 1994 that what were believed to be the remains of Sergeant J.S. Gilders RAF had been discovered. My Department first notified Sergeant Gilders' family on 27 April and a letter of confirmation was sent on 3 May once the Coroner had confirmed the identity of the body.
It is long-standing policy not to disturb crash sites where a member of crew is listed as missing, as such sites are considered an appropriate last resting place for aircrew killed in action. This is a view shared by ex-service organisations who agree that the digging up of wreckage after so many years could be upsetting for next of kin. There is also the possibility of a difference of view between next of kin over what action should be taken where more than one member of crew is listed as missing.