HC Deb 02 December 1947 vol 445 cc178-9
22. Mr. McKie

asked the Secretary of State for War whether a final decision has yet been reached regarding the permanent retention of the tank training ground at Netherlaw, near Kirkcudbright.

Mr. Shinwell

No, Sir.

Mr. McKie

Is the Minister aware of the necessity for reaching a decision as soon as possible, because more than 5,000 acres of the best agricultural area in Scotland are being retained? When he does come to a decision, if he should come to an affirmative decision in regard to the retention of this land, will he keep in mind the necessity for carefully revising the existing boundaries in order to ensure the minimum loss to agriculture?

Mr. Shinwell

I am fully conscious of the need for coming to a decision on this matter, and also of the need for liberating as much agricultural land as possible, but this matter is under consideration by an Inter-Departmental Committee and they have not yet reached a conclusion.

Mr. Emrys Hughes

Is my right hon. Friend aware that, in the Debate on Scottish agriculture yesterday, there was great anxiety expressed in all parts of the House about the occupation of land by the War Office in Scotland, and will he take into earnest consideration the desire felt in Scotland to evict the War Office altogether from Scotland?

Mr. Shinwell

I am afraid that, in this matter, my hon. Friend does not speak for Scotland.