HC Deb 08 February 1955 vol 536 c1727
38. Mr. Watkins

asked the Secretary of State for War over how much land the War Office has obtained rights compulsorily under the Military Lands Act, 1892; and when the provisions of this Act were last used in Wales and the rest of the United Kingdom, respectively.

Mr. Head

Over the years we have acquired many rights under the Military Lands Act, 1892. A great deal of research would be necessary to say how much land was involved. The hon. Member may be referring to rights to fire over land. If this is so, the answer is "None."

Mr. Watkins

When objection is taken to the exercise of these rights, is there any procedure by which a local public inquiry can be held?

Mr. Head

If the hon. Gentleman is referring to rights to fire over land the question does not arise, because we have never done it.

Mr. Gower

Is my right hon. Friend satisfied that his Department is not holding a disproportionate amount of land in Wales under any of these powers?

Mr. Head

There is another Question about that. There are large areas in Wales which are fairly desolate but I do not think the proportion is unduly large. Wherever we go we are never welcome, but we try to go where we shall cause the least inconvenience to civil life.