To answer the question without giving away too much.
It is a Defence requirement, and would not have been specifically asked for by the pollies. If the airfield has a tower than a request is submited for it to be opened for certain VIP flights. Happens reasonably often.
Don't let the facts get in the way of a good story.
Last edited by Vref+5; 11th Feb 2004 at 12:50.