Stanford Training Area

HC Deb 11 June 1953 vol 516 cc32-3W

Mr. Baker

asked the Secretary of State for War if he will take steps to enable the public to regain their age-old privilege of access to Fowlmere, which has just been absorbed by the perimeter of the Stanford battle area.

Mr. Head

Fowlmere has been within the Stanford battle practice area since 1942. The Stanford area is used a lot and is essential if realistic battle training at all levels is to be carred out by the Army.

Mr. Baker

asked the Secretary of State for War if he will expedite the fulfilment of the promises made by his predecessors to relinquish the Stanford battle area.

Mr. Head

No. There was a full investigation at a public local inquiry before it was decided in July, 1948, that the War Department should have the use of the Stanford area for battle training. Compensation has been paid to those displaced.