HC Deb 10 June 1964 vol 696 c436
6. Mr. Swingler

asked the Secretary of State for Defence what progress is being made in the consultations between his Department and the local planning authority about the future of the site at Swynnerton.

The Under-Secretary of State for Defence for the Army (Mr. Peter Kirk)

I understand that the Staffordshire County Council is considering a proposal to send a delegation to my right hon. Friend the Minister of Housing and Local Government to discuss the future of the site at Swynnerton.

Mr. Swingler

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that we are now approaching the seventh anniversary of the Government's announcement of the closure of the factory at Swynnerton, when the dialogue about these 700 acres began? Is it the case that we are now to go round and round the circus again, from Department to Department? Would it not be quicker to set up a Royal Commission?

Mr. Kirk

I am as disappointed as the hon. Gentleman, but the latest delay is caused by the county council and it does not tie in with the assurance by the county council which the hon. Gentleman gave me the last time he questioned me on this matter.