HC Deb 24 October 2001 vol 373 c235W
Dr. Tonge

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, Local Government and the Regions if he will make a statement on the decision made after the events of 11 September to re-route flights away from central London. [8306]

Mr. Jamieson

[holding answer 23 October 2001]: Following the tragic events in USA on 11 September, the Government took immediate steps to restrict flying over the United Kingdom as a precautionary measure while the new terrorist threat was evaluated. Two Restriction of Flying Orders were put in place. These measures were kept under constant review and as a consequence there was a gradual relaxation of restrictions. The first order banning all general aviation flying was lifted at midnight on Wednesday 12 September. The second order banning flights over central London was amended at midnight on 13 September to reduce the amount of London airspace restricted and enable London City airport to reopen (while still protecting central London including Canary wharf). Although this order lapsed at midnight on Saturday 16 September the Government continue to monitor the situation and stand ready to impose further restrictions should they become necessary.