§ 12. Mr. Joplingasked the Minister of State for Defence whether he will list the sites which are being considered for the gunnery ranges which will have to be moved, consequent on the decision to build the third London Airport at Foulness.
§ Mr. Ian GilmourWe are examining the possiblity of transferring the work of the Proof and Experimental Establishment, Shoeburyness, partly to West Freugh in Wigtownshire and partly to Spadeadam in Cumberland. Both are currently occupied by establishments of the former Ministry of Aviation Supply.
§ Mr. JoplingI am grateful for that answer. May we have an assurance that there will be the greatest possible consultation with local people in either 601 case? May we also have an assurance that my hon. Friend will pay as much attention as he can to the dangers of spoiling the amenities of both these areas?
§ Mr. GilmourYes. I can give my hon. Friend both the assurances he requires. We will certainly bear the amenity factors in mind and consult the local authorities.
§ Mr. George ThomsonWill this transfer mean the sterilising of wider areas of land in these two places than are already in the hands of the Defence Department?
§ Mr. GilmourYes, About 1,500 acres of privately-owned land will need to be acquired. No extra land will need to be acquired at Spadeadam. The additional land will not necessarily be sterilised. In addition to the use for which it will be required, it can go on being farmed.
§ Mr. Ronald King MurrayWill extra employment be going to the areas concerned?
§ Mr. GilmourThat certainly follows; certainly as far as West Freugh is concerned.