MOD rejects requests to curb aircraft noise in Gwynedd while pupils take exams
Dale Spridgeon, local democracy reporter
Restricting military aircraft flying over UK schools for two months to avoid exam disruption would cause “significantly impact” on national security training, according to the Ministry of Defence [MOD].
The MOD was responding after a Gwynedd head teacher and a politician appealed for a reduction of RAF planes on exercise whilst pupils sat their GCSEs.
Dwyfor Meirionnydd MP Liz Saville Roberts had taken up the issue after Ysgol Botwnnog’s head Dylan Minnice, as well as teachers and students, had voiced concerns over noise disruption.
Mrs Saville Roberts had asked the MOD if it was possible to reduce the number of low flying Texan aircraft in the vicinity of the the Llŷn Peninsula school near Abersoch.
Mr Minnice had called for planes to avoid exercises around the school for a period of about four hours a day over a four week period, while Year 10 and 11 pupils sat their final GCSE exams which could “have an impact on their futures”.
“But we do understand the importance of RAF exercises, especially with the current situation in Europe,” he said.
Mrs Saville Roberts had urged the MOD to be “mindful” of the impact these operations had on local communities and to “enact measures to mitigate disruption where possible”.
Realistic environment
Responding to their pleas, the MOD told the Local Democracy Reporting Service, that the “essential skills” currently being used each day protecting NATO airspace in the Ukraine crisis could only be maintained through training and practice in a “realistic environment”.
A spokesperson said: “We are keenly aware of the importance of examinations for students across the country.
“Unfortunately, restricting military aircraft activity for two months near schools across the whole of the UK would have a significant impact on defence’s ability to train those upon whom we rely for our national security.
“Training is strictly limited to what is absolutely essential for aircrew to achieve and maintain operational effectiveness.”
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Fat prikcs
When I phoned the MOD to complain more than 3 years ago I was given to understand that it was Saudi pilots training. Who are flying these planes now that we rely upon to look after our national security?
The UK can never go to war with a flat country because there will never ever be any noise in Surrey.
I don’t understand why the RAF can’t do all their training in the Falklands. It’s perfect. A wide range of terrain, and no inhabitants.
They must be really **** pilots if 2 months not buzzing WELSH (not UK mark you) schools would seriously impact national security. I have NEVER forgotten a skill in 2 months of not using it. Maybe its a side effect of the amphetamines they feed them to keep their reaction times up. Most pilots flying over our schools are whizzing their ***s off! Rule Britannia. Britannia waives the rules (for Tories and pilots)
Invite the local kite or drone flying clubs to the school, contact the local military base and tell them whats going on, kites used to be very effective at making the RAF change their routes.
“Unfortunately, restricting military aircraft activity for two months near schools across the whole of the UK would have a significant impact on defence’s ability to train those upon whom we rely for our national security.
Not asking for the whole of the UK, just a small area in Wales.