§ Mr. Ian BruceTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what savings have been estimated in running50W costs by closing (a) RAF Swanton Morley and (b) RAF Northavon; and what was the estimate of the capital value of these sites. [24469]
§ Mr. SoamesThe annual running cost savings resulting from the closure of RAF Swanton Morley are £6,729,000. There are no plans to close Netheravon camp—there is no RAF Northavon—but savings from ceasing Army Air Corps flying activity at the site are expected to be £1,404,000.
As it may be possible to sell Swanton Morley, it is not appropriate to disclose the estimate of likely capital value. Such estimates have, however, been taken into account in the cost appraisal for the options for the future location of the third reconnaissance regiment.