§ 27. Mr. Hugh Fraserasked the Secretary of State for War whether in view of the immediate needs of both the Regular and Territorial Armies, he has any statement To make on training areas.
§ The Secretary of State for War (Mr. Bellenger)I am not at present in a position to add anything to the statement made by my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister on 25th February.
§ Mr. FraserIs not the Minister aware of the pressure, both by village communities and military authorities, that some definite decision should be made on this subject? It was promised on 4th February. Surely it is time that a decision was made?
§ Mr. BellengerClose and detailed consideration has been given to all the areas in the country, and I hope that the time is not far distant when a statement will be made.
§ Mr. LipsonCan the right hon. Gentleman say whether it is the intention to requisition land only for Territorial units?
§ Mr. BellengerThat is part of the question to which, I hope, we shall give an answer very soon.
§ Viscount HinchingbrookeIs the Minister aware that the decision to set up these local public inquiries was taken four months ago? What is the reason for the delay? Why are these inquiries not being constituted now?
§ Mr. BellengerBecause His Majesty's Government wish to present a total picture to the House before going into details which will probably necessitate local inquiries.