§ 26. Mr. Evelyn Kingasked the Minister of State for Defence if he has now considered the brief which has been sent to him relative to the release of defence lands, including Tyneham, in Dorset; what action he will take; and if he will make a statement.
§ Lord BalnielAs I announced in the House on 14th January, a Committee has been appointed to review defence land holdings. I am arranging for the brief to be brought to the Committee's attention.—[Vol. 809, c. 244–7.]
§ Mr. KingWhile I recognise that the presence of armed forces will make a substantial improvement to economic and social development to the county of Dorset, may I ask my hon. Friend to try to relax matters so that greater access is granted to Dorset people to these defence lands, about which they feel indignant?
§ Lord BalnielWe are undertaking a review of the defence lands but it would be wrong for me in advance of the Committee's report to make any undertakings about any specific defence lands.
§ Mr. Brian WaldenWhen will the hon. Gentleman be able to make available to the House the report in respect of the movement from Foulness to Pembroke? Here again we have been reading Press accounts of this but have heard nothing about it in the House? Is it to be published and, if so, when?
§ Lord BalnielThe Question related to defence lands in Dorset. I suggest that the hon. Gentleman puts down a Question on the matters to which he has referred.