§ Mr. DrewTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will publish the protocol between the USA and UK Governments whereby US planes can use RAF Fairford to undertake acts of war. [103533]
§ Mr. Hoon[holding answer 18 March 2003]The use of United Kingdom bases, including RAF Fairford, by the United States Visiting Force is set out in a number of confidential arrangements between the UK and US Governments. I am withholding the release of these documents in accordance with Exemption 1 (Defence, security and international relations) of the Code of Practice on Access to Government Information. I can confirm, however, that the use of UK bases for combat operations by United States Air Force aircraft remains a matter for joint decision by the UK and US Governments at the appropriate time.
§ Mr. DrewTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what discussions he has had with(a) the US Air Force and (b) local police forces on security at RAF Fairford. [104611]
§ Mr. IngramThe Ministry of Defence is engaged in regular and frequent: discussions with all parties with a responsibility for security at RAF Fairford, including the United States Air Force and the local police.