§ Mr. EdwardsTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence (1) if he will make a statement about contamination at the Caerwent military base; [3574]
(2) what representations he has received about the future use of the Caerwent military base; [3575]
(3) what plans he has for the future of the Caerwent military base. [3573]
§ Mr. SpellarNo decisions have yet been taken on the future of the RAF Caerwent site. Consideration of the way forward will include an assessment of the contamination of the site and take into account the wishes of the local community. The site contains some residual contamination resulting from its former use as a propellant factory and ammunition depot and some buildings contain asbestos. A land quality assessment is currently being conducted.
My Department has received numerous representations regarding the future use of the RAF Caerwent site; notably from the previous hon. Member for Monmouth and the Monmouthshire county council as well as from local interest groups, land owners and private companies.