HC Deb 21 June 1939 vol 348 cc2211-4
29. Major Stourton

asked the Secretary of State for Air whether it is proposed to

able to announce an improvement in the non-effective benefits for flying personnel of the Auxiliary Air Force and the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve?

The Secretary of State for Air (Sir Kingsley Wood)

I am glad to be able to announce that considerable improvements in the non-effective benefits of non-regular flying personnel injured or killed in flying accidents on duty have recently been approved and will be brought into force forthwith. The details are best presented in tabular form, and with the hon. Member's permission I will circulate a statement in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Following is the statement:

proceed with the compulsory acquisition of some 300 acres of valuable agricultural land of the Stourhead estate at Stourton Wiltshire, for a training aerodrome, in view of the fact that in the event of such purchase the offer of the mansion house and 2,700 acres of the estate by Sir Henry Hoare to the nation through the National Trust would at once be withdrawn?

Sir K. Wood

This question is still under consideration and, in reaching a decision, I will certainly take into account the facts mentioned by my hon. and gallant Friend.

Major Stourton

Is my right hon. Friend aware that it would be a public scandal of the first magnitude if this lovely estate were to be lost to posterity?

Sir K. Wood

Yes, Sir, but I must also have regard to National Defence.

Mr. T. Williams

Can the right hon. Gentleman say. whether, when taking over areas of land for aerodromes, the Minister of Agriculture is consulted; and is he aware that some of the very best agricultural land in this country has been appropriated by this Government when there are other areas equally suitable?

Sir K. Wood

The greatest care is exercised in this matter, but if the hon. Gentleman has any other site in mind, and he would like to send me particulars, I should be glad to receive them, because I have many more aerodromes to find during the next few months.

Mr. Williams

Will the right hon. Gentleman be good enough to reply to my question whether, before these agricultural areas are taken over, he consults the Minister of Agriculture?

Sir K. Wood

Yes, Sir.

Mr. Mander

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether any report has been received from Professor Abercrombie on this matter, and is his advice going to be taken?

Sir K. Wood

Professor Abercrombie is consulted by me, and the advice he gives is for my own use.

Mr. Mander

Has he been consulted on this matter?

Sir K. Woods

Yes, Sir.

Major Stourton

Can my right hon. Friend state whether alternative sites are under consideration?

Sir K. Wood

I cannot say. We examine all possible alternative sites, but, as I say, I want many more sites.