§ Mr. Gwilym Robertsasked the Minister of Technology what study he has made of the evidence submitted to him by the hon. Member for South Bedfordshire on the use of Royal Air Force personnel at Maralinga, South Australia, on useless tasks, including the sweeping out of buildings which had been empty for a long time; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. BennI have looked into the evidence submitted by the hon. Member. Every effort is made to employ Royal Air Force personnel at Maralinga base on their main functions, which are the care of stores and the provision of communications, fire and airfield services. However, as part of a caretaker force awaiting a decision on the future of the base they must necessarily keep buildings, equipment and facilities in good condition, including those not in current use.
§ Mr. Gwilym Robertsasked the Minister of Technology, what function the Royal Air Force element is performing at Maralinga, South Australia; and when it is intended to withdraw these servicemen from that area.
§ Mr. BennA small Royal Air Force element of 15 men is needed at Maralinga base for essential tasks such as the care of stores and communications and airfield duties. I hope that withdrawal of these men will be able to commence shortly once agreement has been reached with the Australian Government about the future of the base.