HC Deb 23 July 1958 vol 592 cc399-400
18. Mr. de Freitas

asked the Secretary of State for Air whether he will make a statement on the help given by the Royal Air Force, St. Athan, to the organisers and competitors at the British Empire and Commonwealth Games.

Mr. C. I. Orr-Ewing

We are making accommodation available at R.A.F. Station St. Athan for the 1,500 competitors and officials. They also have the use of the station recreational facilities which, in addition to a gymnasium and playing fields, include an athletics track and a swimming bath. The buildings handed over form a self-contained village.

The first parties arrived early this month and we have offered to make the accommodation available until mid-August. No rent is being charged, although the organisers of the Games are of course responsible for any extra expenditure which may be incurred.

Perhaps I may take this opportunity to say how glad we are to make facilities available to the Commonwealth teams and officials in this way.

Mr. J. Griffiths

As one who has had the privilege of visiting the camp, may I pay a great tribute to the Ministry and those who are responsible at St. Athan for the splendid facilities they are providing for the athletes?

Mr. Orr-Ewing

I gladly accept the right hon. Gentleman's remarks. People on the spot have a wonderful opportunity of meeting Commonwealth competitors from all over the world and this very day they may have an opportunity to meet His Royal Highness the Duke of Edinburgh.

Mr. Gower

Is my hon. Friend aware that competitors from abroad and Press correspondents have stated that the facilities provided, particularly in the village, have been unsurpassed in any international games in their experience?

Mr. Orr-Ewing

Yes, Sir.

Mr. J. Griffiths

Come to Wales.