Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, if he will make an assessment of the potential merits of (a) expanding RAF operations in addition to the Joint Helicopter Flying Station Aldergrove and (b) re-establishing RAF Aldergrove at Belfast International Airport.

The RAF continually assesses its basing footprint based on operational needs. The RAF is embarked upon a significant programme of investment across its Estate to ensure that it meets the demands of its future activity. Based on operational priorities, the increased use of Aldergrove Flying Station does not currently feature within the RAF's plans for future basing. Should operational demands change, the RAF will ensure all viable options are considered as part of any future review.