§ Mr. BaldryTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what plans he has to demonstrate that best value was achieved for the taxpayer through the arrangements entered into by the Ministry of Defence with the North Oxfordshire Consortium for the development and disposal of land at RAF Upper Heyford. [10331]
§ Mr. SpellarThe arrangement between North Oxfordshire Consortium and my Department was formed after an extensive assessment of commercial proposals for the sustainable development of the RAF Upper Heyford site. In supporting this arrangement since 1995, the view has been taken that the arrangement with the NOC will realise the commercial and development potential of this important site while remaining sensitive and open to the concerns of the local community. We hope that this will be progressively demonstrated as individual areas are brought forward for redevelopment.