§ Mr. WigleyTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what plans he has to reassess the situation in respect of low flying aircraft in Wales following the recent accident in Italy. [29592]
§ Mr. SpellarLow flying continues to be an effective means of penetrating hostile air defence systems. It require rigorous training and continuous practice in a realistic environment, subject to stringent regulation to ensure that it is carried out safely while minimising disturbance to those on the ground. The whole of the United Kingdom excluding built up areas is, in principle, open to low flying and Wales will continue to see a proportion of this activity.
§ Mr. WigleyTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what are the Government's targets for reducing low flying by aircraft over Wales in the current year; and if his Department achieved its target for 1997. [29594]
§ Mr. SpellarThe amount of low flying training undertaken throughout the United Kingdom is limited to that strictly necessary for aircrews to achieve and maintain operational effectiveness. It is kept under continuous review and specific in-year targets are not set. Since 1988, low flying in Wales has reduced by about a half.