HC Deb 24 April 1951 vol 487 cc197-8
29. Mr. Geoffrey Wilson

asked the Secretary of State for War when the additional firing rights required as a safety precaution of the full-bore rifle range at Idless, Cornwall, will be acquired so that practice can be resumed by the Truro Battalion Home Guard Rifle Club.

Mr. Strachey

My Department is negotiating with local farmers for firing rights over the additional danger area and is at present awaiting a reply from the Cornwall branch of the National Farmers' Union which is dealing with the question on their behalf.

Mr. Wilson

Did not the Minister, on a former occasion, agree that this rifle club might form a useful basis for the Home Guard if re-formed? Can he do anything to expedite the reopening of this range, which is very essential for the rifle club's continuance?

Mr. Strachey

Certainly, we are endeavouring to obtain these rights for them through the N.F.U. locally.