HC Deb 27 November 1992 vol 214 cc896-7W
Dr. David Clark

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence (1) what agreement he has negotiated, or is currently negotiating, with the Cnewr estate in the Brecon Beacons national park for the use of the land; whether the national park authority was consulted about these negotiations concerning that land; and if he will make a statement;

(2) what plans he has for the use of the Cnewr estate in the Brecon Beacons national park; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Archie Hamilton

The Army has been using the Cnewr estate for adventurous training on an informal basis since 1976. The local defence land agent was approached by the trustees of the estate on 31 July 1992 with a view to putting arrangements on a more formal basis. These discussions are still at an early stage. The national park officer was informed on 22 September, when it was proposed that a meeting should take place between MOD, the national park and the estate.

Dr. David Clark

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what plans he has for allowing public access to the Cnewr estate in the Brecon Beacons national park, and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Archie Hamilton

The Cnewr estate is privately owned and public access is not, therefore, a matter for the Ministry of Defence.