§ 92. Mr. Warbeyasked the Under-secretary of State for Air to state the terms of the recent agreement with the United States of America for the extension of United States air bases in the United Kingdom.
Mr. WardI think the hon. Member probably has in mind an exchange of letters which took place on 9th September, 1953, between the American Ambassador and myself, acting on behalf of the Secretary of State for Air. These letters set out revised financial arrangements to govern the construction programme for the United States Air Force in this country. It is estimated that the capital expenditure on these projects for the period 1951–55 will be £125 million, of which this country's direct financial contribution is limited to £22½ million. In addition, however, the Air Ministry 217W is providing free of charge accommodation and facilities surplus to the needs of the Royal Air Force.
With effect from 1st July, 1951, the entire cost of maintaining all the bases and facilities, including the cost of minor new works services, will be borne by the United States Air Force, with the exception of the maintenance costs incurred at four particular airfields while they were being constructed.