§ Sir G. HOHLERasked the Under Secretary of State for Air whether it is proposed to close the marine armament experimental establishment in the Isle of Grain; and, if so, whether, in view of the fact that it is an essential station in ease of air raids on London and vital to the defences of the Thames and Medway and the naval yards of Chatham and Sheerness, and also admirably situated for air practice and bombing owing to its proximity to the rivers and the sea, he will consider, before taking any step to close the station, whether it would be more economical to retain it than to remove it, having regard to the expense already incurred?
§ Mr. LEACHThe establishment referred to has already been closed and the experimental work previously carried out there transferred to other stations. The decision to close the station was reached after careful consideration of all aspects of the question, including those mentioned by the hon. Member.