HC Deb 30 October 2002 vol 391 c813W
Mr. Luff

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment. Food and Rural Affairs what recent discussions she has had and what expressions of interest she has received from parties relating to the purchase of land owned by her Department at Throckmorton; and if she will make a statement. [76262]

Mr. Morley

No discussions have taken place between potential purchasers and Ministers or DEFRA officials about the sale of land owned by the Department at Throckmorton and no formal offers to purchase all or part of the land have been received. However, agents acting for DEFRA have been approached by one party interested in acquiring a piece of the land. That party was advised that DEFRA is not able to consider disposals at this time but if and when the land was declared surplus to Government requirements, it would be sold for the best price achievable. Home Office officials have also indicated that there are matters they may wish to discuss with DEFRA officials.