HC Deb 09 December 1946 vol 431 cc750-1
45. Mr. W. R. Williams

asked the Prime Minister whether he is aware of the concern felt by the Heston and Isle-worth Borough Council regarding the delay on the part of the Inter-Departmental Committee on Land Requirements in making a decision as to whether the 43 acres of land at Beaver's Lane, Hounslow, is to be acquired for military purposes, or whether such land, together with the hutments erected thereon, can be immediately surrendered for use by the council to provide housing accommodation urgently required; and what action he proposes to take in the matter.

The Lord President of the Council (Mr. Herbert Morrison)

I have been asked to reply. The camp is in full use by a primary training centre of the Regular Army and will be required for this purpose for some time to come. The Inter-Departmental Committee has not vet considered the question of the permanent retention of this camp, as it has bean full" engaged in considering proposals in respect of training areas. Arrangements are being made, however, for the committee to give special consideration at an early date to the future use of this camp.

Mr. Williams

Is the Lord President aware that the delay in reaching this decision has been a serious handicap to the local authority in formulating their housing scheme? Can he, therefore, give an assurance that the Inter-Departmental Committee will give urgent consideration to the matter?

Mr. Morrison

I will see that the considerations to which my hon. Friend has drawn attention are brought to their notice. In the meantime, it is the case that the Regular Army will need the land for some time. But I will see that the points that he has mentioned are given consideration.

Mr. Williams

The Lord President of the Council says that the Army requires accommodation, but may I point out to him the serious need of the people of Heston and Isleworth for housing accommodation?