by Tricia Jamieson

Some people may have wanted MP Michael Howard spirited away by aliens. But was there an attempt in 1997?

Details of an investigation into an alleged UFO sighting over the former home secretary's house in Lympne are included in the latest national archives files released by the Government.

They show that a "triangular object with lights" was spotted in the sky near the home of the Folkestone and Hythe MP on March 8, 1997.

A number of people reported the sighting - but Mr Howard was unaware of it.
He is abroad at present but a spokesman for him said: "Michael was not aware of the incident until it was reported in the papers at the time.

"He knew nothing about it – and I don’t think he was in danger of being abducted by aliens."

The files show that in a reply to one of those who reported the sighting, the Ministry of Defence said: "Air Defence staff have confirmed there is no evidence to suggest any unauthorised incursion of the UK Air Defence region on that date."

In a letter to then new Prime Minister Tony Blair, a writer claims details of the sighting were altered when they appeared in the local press.

A note attached to the files says inquiries with the RAF found no evidence of "unauthorised military activity" in the Folkestone area at the time.

It adds: "However, RAF West Drayton impounded a radar tape covering the area/time in question for the inquiry.

"The Home Office considered 'there was no security alert at Mr Howard’s home.....at the time in question'. RAF conclude there was 'no substance' to the story."

So, is there anyone out there?