§ Mr. Fauldsasked the Secretary of State for Defence what progress has been made in transferring military training from the National Trust areas of Dartmoor to other areas of the moor, since the report "Dartmoor" by Lady Sharp;
§ Mr Fauldsasked the Secretary of State for the Environment (1) what action has followed from the recommendations made in the report on military training on Dartmoor by Lady Sharp.
(2) if he will make a statement on the work of the consultative body established to review the situation as regards military training on Dartmoor following the report by Lady Sharp.
§ Mr. Robert C. BrownI have been asked to reply also to the Questions to my right hon. Friend.
The position is as follows. References are to paragraphs in Lady Sharp's report:
(a) Paragraph 299—The possibility of transferring the small arms ranges from Willsworthy has formed the subject of local discussion and is receiving further consideration.
(b) Paragraphs 300 and 301—These matters will be raised within the new consultative machinery.
(c) Paragraph 302—Proposals for increased access to the West Dart Valley have been made to the Countryside Commission, Nature Conservancy Council and the Dartmoor National Park Officer. The possibility of allowing other access will be discussed in the consultative body.
(d) Paragraph 303—A report by the local military authorities on the possibility of transferring most of the artillery and mortar firing from Dartmoor is under consideration.
(e) Paragraph 304—As stated in Cmnd 6837, this is not a matter for the Ministry of Defence.
(f) Paragraph 305—Training on Ring-moor has been suspended for some 12 586W months but discussions on strictly limited forms of training are proceeding. An alternative to Ringmoor for all forms of dry training is being sought.
(g) Paragraph 306—I hope soon to announce the composition and terms of reference of a consultative body.