Colonel FABERasked the Prime Minister to whom the land selected for the site of a flying ground at Loch Doon 982W belonged; what was paid for it; what were the names of those who put forward the scheme; what professional advisers reported in favour of it; and what firms were engaged on the contract?
§ Major BAIRDThe names of the principal landowners concerned are the Marquess of Ailsa, Mrs. McAdam, and Mr. McMillan. No question of purchase of land arises, and the amount to be paid in respect of occupation is for settlement by the Defence of the Realm Losses Commission. As regards the third and fourth parts of the question, I would refer my hon. Friend to the recent Report of the Select Committee on National Expenditure. The main contractors were Messrs. R. Mc Alpine and Sons.
§ Mr. FIELDasked the Under-Secretary of State to the Air Ministry whether he can state the amount of money spent at Doon, and what is proposed to be done with the land; and who was responsible for the expenditure?
§ Major BAIRDUntil questions of compensation and of the expenses of restoration have been settled it will not be possible to determine the total expenditure involved by the works of Loch Doon. The land will be restored to its owners. As regards the last part of the question, I can add nothing to the recent Report of the Select Committee on National Expenditure.