HC Deb 03 December 1969 vol 792 cc1470-1
12. Mr. Scott-Hopkins

asked the Secretary of State for Defence what progress he has made in his discussions about the renewal of licences for the Services to train on Dartmoor.

Mr. Hattersley

The Duchy of Cornwall, the National Trust, the Countryside Commission and the Dartmoor National Park Committee have all agreed in principle to a renewal of the licences, but the period for which they should be renewed is still under discussion.

Mr. Scott-Hopkins

Is the hon. Gentleman aware of the importance of this area to the Services for training facilities, and would he make certain that the licences are renewed for a proper length of time so that there can be a proper continuation of Service training?

Mr. Hattersley

I am anxious to meet those points. Certainly we could only accept some of the short-term leases which have been suggested on the basis that it would be our intention to apply for their renewal when they fell in.