§ 25. Colonel Ropnerasked the Secretary of State for Air whether he is aware that schoolchildren who have been able to gain access to Marston Moor aerodrome have acquired revolvers; and whether, in future, he will ensure that all firearms are properly guarded or, locked up.
§ Mr. P. Noel-BakerYes, Sir. On 21st October last, some schoolboys broke into the armoury at Marston Moor and stole five revolvers. Extra locks have since been put on the doors of the armoury and the windows have been barred.
§ Colonel RopnerIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that I have received representations, including one from a local authority, of the lack of care and attention which Government property receives at Marston Moor, and will he cause an inquiry to be made to make certain that there is not the appalling waste which is alleged?
§ Mr. Noel-BakerInquiries have been made already following the hon. and gallant Member's Question, for which I am much obliged, and I think that, broadly speaking, there is no serious abuse at Marston Moor. They are handling a very big job, and they are faced with considerable difficulties. In this case, there has been a court of inquiry, and the findings are now under consideration.