§ 6. Sir R. Russellasked the Secretary of State for Defence to what extent the Shoeburyness firing range was moved to Llandudno during the 1939–45 war; what was the cost of the move; on what other occasions it has been moved from its present site; and if he will make a statement.
§ The Minister of Defence for Administration (Mr. G. W. Reynolds)If the hon. Member is referring to the Proof and Experimental Establishment, it has never been moved. However he may be thinking of the Coast Artillery School which was moved to Llandudno in 1940 from its site on the Old Ranges at Shoeburyness. I regret that the cost of that operation is not known.
§ Sir R. RussellIs there considerable objection to moving the proving and testing range in the event of somewhere in this area being regarded as a possible site for a third London Airport?
§ Mr. ReynoldsDespite the fact that we have searched, I am not aware that there is any other suitable site. In addition, of course, there is the cost.