Defence secretary backs Durham Tees Valley Airport security
13.08.07
Defence Secretary Des Browne has backed security arrangements at Durham Tees Valley Airport, after a local MP questioned the level of security at the airport and claimed it could be an 'appealing target' for terrorists last month.
Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland MP Ashok Kumar questioned security at the airport last month, suggesting that it could be a terrorist target because of its regular use by military personnel from the nearby Catterick Garrison.
Mr. Kumar raised the issue in the House of Commons, questioning whether security at Durham Tees Valley should be stepped up because of frequent military flights to the Middle East. Stockton North MP Frank Cook took up the issue with the Defence Secretary, who has now replied in writing. In the letter Mr. Browne said security was 'sufficient for military use'.
Mr. Cook said: 'I am pleased the Defence Secretary makes clear that he is confident that the security level at Durham Tees Valley Airport is sufficient for military use. He has explained there is close cooperation between the military, airport security authorities and the local police in the handling of all flights involving military personnel.'
'He has also explained that neither RAF Leeming nor RAF Church Fenton would be suitable for the type of flights handled currently through Durham Tees Valley. Leeming is a fast jet base and the runway at Church Fenton is too short. I believe that we can take pride in the fact that our Airport is there to serve the needs of all sections of the community, including our service men and women.'
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