§ 44. Mr. Toucheasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty for what purpose it is proposed to erect further masts in the neighbourhood of the Magnetic Station at Abinger; what is to be the height of the masts; and whether the Ministry of Town and Country Planning has been consulted regarding the erection and location.
§ Mr. W. EdwardsNo further masts are being erected at this Admiralty station. What is being done is to replace two existing 78-foot masts, which in their present position are stated to interfere with agriculture, by a single mast, which will be 100 feet high. The Ministry of Town and, Country Planning are aware of this proposal and have no objection.
§ Mr. ToucheCan the hon. Gentleman say whether the Ministry of Town and Country Planning were consulted?
§ Mr. EdwardsWe have been in communication with the Ministry—since the Question was put down actually—and we understand that they have no objection. This is a matter of one mast being erected in the place of two.
Mr. Wilson HarrisIn view of the fact that the whole of the Greenwich Observatory, including the Magnetic Station at Abinger are to be moved to Herstmonceux, why should any further construction proceed in this very attractive corner of Surrey?
§ Mr. EdwardsI am afraid that the move will take some time to accomplish and that the Admiralty will require this station for some time yet.