HC Deb 01 February 1949 vol 460 cc1483-4
5. Mr. Granville Sharp

asked the Minister of Town and Country Planning if he will give details of the public right of access to the 28,000 acres of the proposed national park area at Fylingdales Moor; and whether the military authorities are empowered to deny such access whenever they are so disposed.

Mr. Silkin

The public will be permanently excluded, in the interests of their own safety, only from the battle area of some 19,300 acres. As stated in the announcement of the decision of the Government, the public will not, on account of the requirements of military training, be excluded from the assembly area of some 8,000 acres.

Mr. Sharp

Does my right hon. Friend's reply mean that the public may go to the assembly area whenever they wish?

Mr. Silkin

There may be occasions when they will be excluded, but normally they will be free to roam about.

Mr. Sharp

Will my right hon. Friend consider now placing in the Library full details of the public rights of access in this area?

Mr. Silkin

I will certainly consider it, but it is inherent in the decision that was made, which is available.

Lieut.-Commander Gurney Braithwaite

Will the right hon. Gentleman take particular care to see that access is available during the holiday season?

Mr. Silkin

Subject to the requirements of training. It is not possible to suspend training during holidays.