HC Deb 12 June 1939 vol 348 cc896-7
52. Mr. J. Morgan

asked the Secretary of State for Air on what grounds he proposes to establish a military aerodrome on part of an historic estate at Stour-head, Wilts, which has been offered as a conditional bequest to the nation; and whether he intends to proceed with this scheme?

The Secretary of State for Air (Sir Kingsley Wood)

In order to meet urgent defence requirements it is necessary for my Department to acquire a number of aerodrome sites in this part of the country, and the number of suitable sites is of necessity limited. While preliminary inquiries have been made in regard to a portion of the Stourhead estate, no decision has been arrived at.

Mr. Morgan

Is the right hon. Gentleman taking into full account the conditions attached to this bequest; and will he have regard to the wider interests of the nation, in coming to a final decision?

Sir K. Wood

Yes, Sir, but I am sure the hon. Gentleman will appreciate the fact that I must have regard to national Defence in the first place.

Mr. Morgan

All other factors being equal, will the right hon. Gentleman take those considerations which I have mentioned into account?

Sir P. Hurd

Has the right hon. Gentleman received earnest protests from the National Trust, and from the Council for the Preservation of Rural England?

Sir K. Wood

I understand that a number of communications have been made. In fact, I expect such communications in regard to nearly every site which it is proposed to take.

Sir P. Hurd

But is not this site National Trust property?

Mr. H. Strauss

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the public has enjoyed the amenities of this estate for two centuries and that it is being left to the National Trust; and that, if my right hon. Friend finds it possible to avoid acquiring this property, the public will enjoy it for ever?

Sir K. Wood

I will have regard to these facts, but I must point out to my hon. Friend the necessity that we are under to obtain suitable sites. I have to obtain a very large number of sites during the next few months, and, as I have said, I must put national Defence first.