HC Deb 02 July 1974 vol 876 cc201-2
16. Mr. MacFarlane

asked the Secretary of State for Defence whether he can now say if he intends to implement the Nugent Committee's recommendation to return the village of Tyneham to the people of Dorset.

Mr. William Rodgers

We are still considering the Nugent Committee's proposals.

Mr. MacFarlane

I thank the hon. Gentleman for his somewhat terse reply. I declare by interest as a member of the National Trust. Is there any need for the retention of this village in any military capacity? Is there nothing that the Minister and his Department can do to hasten the return of the village to the people of Dorset?

Mr. Rodgers

I am anxious that we reach conclusions and publish soon the Nugent Committee's proposals which will cover the point the hon. Gentleman has raised. My right hon. Friend the Leader of the House has indicated to the hon. Member for Dorset, South (Mr. King), in whose constituency the village of Tyne-ham is situated, that he hopes we shall have a debate on the Nugent proposals before the Summer Recess.

Mr. Nicholas Edwards

Is the Minister aware that there is overwhelming opposition in my constituency about proposals that the range should be transferred from Lulworth to Castlemartin? Is he aware of the motion on the Order Paper in the last Parliament, signed by the present Secretary of State for Wales and many other right hon. and hon. Gentlemen? Is he further aware of the large number of houses standing empty pending a decision, and will he accelerate a decision as much as he can?

Mr. Rodgers

I am aware of all the considerations that the hon. Gentleman has mentioned, and I confirm that we shall announce to the House very soon the conclusions of our review.