HL Deb 10 February 1977 vol 379 cc1273-4

3.10 p.m.

Lord PARGITER

My Lords, I beg leave to ask the Question which stands in my name on the Order Paper.

The Question was as follows:

To ask Her Majesty's Government for what Service personnel it is proposed to pull down the existing barrack buildings at Kenley aerodrome and to replace them with 100 units of family accommodation; and whether this is the most economic place for such housing.

Lord WINTERBOTTOM

My Lords, 100 married soldiers' quarters will be built at Kenley airfield within the area now occupied by the old RAF administrative buildings which are no longer needed and will be demolished except for those required for Army administration, welfare and amenity purposes. The quarters are required for London Ceremonial Troops who have been short of married accommodation for some time. Kenley airfield is the most suitable available MOD-owned land in the area for this purpose; and the existence of a substantial number of RAF quarters which can be used by the Army makes this the most economic proposition.

Lord PARGITER

My Lords, while thanking my noble friend for that Answer, having regard to the fact that the site will be at least a mile from the nearest shopping facilities and with a rather unsatisfactory bus service, could I ask whether any provision will be made for limited shopping facilities?

Lord WINTERBOTTOM

My Lords, I cannot answer that question; but, knowing how efficient are the Army welfare services, I am quite certain that suitable arrangements will be made.

Lord BALFOUR of INCHRYE

My Lords, is the Minister aware that many acts of great courage originated from Kenley during the war in the course of the Battle of Britain? Would he consider making representations to any part of our Services or organisations that is to take over what was Kenley aerodrome for the provision of some small memento, something in memory of those who fought so gallantly from that place?

Lord WINTERBOTTOM

My Lords, I shall certainly bring that proposal to the attention of my right honourable friend the Secretary of State. It seems to me to be most appropriate.