HC Deb 10 February 1953 vol 511 cc218-9
56. Mr. Spearman

asked the Secretary of State for War if he will now give a decision as to whether the War Office are to acquire the Newton House Estate on Fylingdale Moor, near Whitby, in view of the fact that his Department has delayed the decision for some years.

Mr. J. R. H. Hutchison

Planning clearance was received on 6th February and instructions were issued on 7th February for negotiations to be opened for the purchase of Newton House Estate. As has been explained to my hon. Friend, planning clearance was a prerequisite before a decision to acquire the estate could be taken.

Mr. Spearman

Will my hon. Friend bear in mind that this property was requisitioned in 1940 and subject to a public inquiry in 1948, and will he do everything he can to see that in 1953 its future is finally settled?

Mr. Hutchison

Yes, Sir, we are most anxious to get on with this type of case, but to introduce harmony into the many interests concerned, which is necessary before one can arrive at a solution, is not always easy.