§ 16. Lieut.-Colonel HENEAGEasked the Under-Secretary of State for Air if it is intended to include in the bombing and machine-gun practice ground proposed to be established on the Lincolnshire coast, any part of the north end of the urban district of Mablethorpe, in the vicinity of which building development is taking place?
§ Sir P. SASSOONA portion of this district will be included but it is quite limited in extent. I may add that the district is understood to have only one house already built and a small bungalow in course of erection, and both of these are outside the area of the range.
§ Lieut.-Colonel HENEAGEWill the Under-Secretary make further inquiries? He will find that there are nearly 30 houses in this neighbourhood and that others are being built. There is a strong, feeling in the locality on the matter.
§ Mr. KNIGHTIs the hon. Member aware that this locality is largely used as a popular resort during the summer season and will he see that any arrangements that may be made will not curtail that enjoyment?
§ 18. Mr. PIKEasked the Under-Secretary of State for Air what distance from Mablethorpe Town will high explosive bombs be used and machine-gun fire take place; and whether, in view of the close proximity of the practice ground to a town dependent upon its visitors during the machine-gun and bombing practice season, steps will be taken to ensure compensation for any considerable loss of trade or rateable value?
§ Sir P. SASSOONThe distances are about four miles and two miles respectively. I have no reason, however, to think that my hon. Friend's fears of loss of trade or rateable value are justified, and I may add that the establishment of a permanent Royal Air Force Station should in other ways have a beneficial effect on the prosperity of the district.