§ Mr. FoulkesTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what progress has been made towards implementing the planned reduction in low flying in the borders tactical training area; when the full reduction will be achieved; what plans there are for monitoring the progress of the reduction in volume; and if he will make a statement. [5370]
§ Mr. SoamesMy noble Friend the Under-Secretary of State for Defence announced on 6 August that operational low flying will be distributed between the three tactical training areas in proportion to their areas when averaged over a year. Action to achieve this aim was set in hand immediately, and the redistribution will be achieved by the end of July 1997. Thereafter, activity will be monitored by calendar year.