HC Deb 15 July 1994 vol 246 cc819-20W
Dr. David Clark

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence which regiments that use multiple-launch rocket systems and AS90s are likely to train with them on(a) Salisbury plain and (b) Otterburn; where the regiments will be based; where their multiple-launch rocket systems and AS90s will be stored; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Hanley

There is one AS90 regiment at Tidworth and one at Topcliffe. MLRS regiments are based at Catterick and Larkhill and it is intended that a further regiment will be based at Ouston from late 1995 when it returns from Germany. Equipment will be collocatecd with these regiments.

It is planned that they will conduct their AS90 and MLRS training at Salisbury plain, Otterburn and Catterick.

Dr. David Clark

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence (1) what is the remit for the environmental impact assessment for his Department's proposals for Otterburn; and if he will make a statement;

(2) what arrangements he is making for consultations with (a) statutory organisations, (b) voluntary organisations and (c) individuals concerning his Department's proposals for Otterburn; what are the stages of this consultation process; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Hanley

It is our intention to appoint independent consultants in August to carry out a full environmental impact assessment in accordance with the provisions of Department of Environment circular 15/88, to consider the effects of our proposals for Otterburn. This is expected to take approximately four months to complete. As part of the EIA, the consultants will seek the views of the local planning authority, statutory bodies, and other interested parties. In addition, my officials will provide briefings to voluntary organisations. The formal consultation process is a matter for the local planning authority, after submission by my Department of a notice of proposed development.

Dr. David Clark

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what plans he has to develop dry training at Otterburn in the future; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Hanley

While the proposals which I announced on 23 June,Official Report, columns 250–51, will not involve an increase in dry training at Otterburn, the pattern of dry training carried out there is likely to change. In addition, we are currently considering our overall requirement for dry training in the United Kingdom.

Dr. David Clark

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence whether he intends to conduct a public inquiry into his Department's proposals for developments at Otterburn; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Hanley

My Department's proposals for the development of the Otterburn training area will be submitted to the local planning authority, for its consideration in accordance with the provisions of the Department of Environment circular 18/84. If the local planning authority raises objections to the proposed developments, the matter will be referred to my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for the Environment to determine whether a public inquiry should be held.