§ Mr. Tom Hooson (Brecon and Radnor)I rise to present a petition by Crickhowell, Cwmdu, Llangattock, Llangenni and Llangynidr community councils in the county of Powys. Their grievance concerns the announced intention of the Secretary of State for Defence to phase out the infantry training depot of the Prince of Wales division at Cwrt y Gollen, Crickhowell, by 1986.
The petitioners are 44 community councillors and they pray that the House will prevent this step. Being myself resident in the immediate vicinity, I know that they truly reflect the strong desire of the area to retain the Army as a good neighbour.
In addition, the councillors undoubtedly speak for Wales. During the highly publicised speculation about the future of Cwrt y Gollen through the early summer months, we attracted widespread support for the depot throughout the Principality.
Ever since Agincourt, Wales has provided infantry soldiers for the British Army, yet today Cwrt y Gollen is the sole remaining Army training depot in Wales. That powerful factor of the Welsh nation's historic identification with the Army must be added to the councillors' concern at the impact of closure on the local economy.
The petitioners pray that Cwrt y Gollen will be retained as a military depot, and we must hope that all possibilities, including its use by the Territorial Army and the other armed services, will be explored.
§ To lie upon the Table.