§ 116. Mr. Yorkasked the Secretary of State for War whether he will make a statement about the use of land for training during the winter months in the Ripon area; and why no prior consultations were held with the local authority or local farmers.
§ Mr. BellengerThe Ripon training area is at present being used by the School of Military Engineering. Their training consists of minor training, bridging, and field training. The major portion of this area is used under Defence Regulation 52. Notice of renewal has been issued for the current six months as for previous periods. In August, 1942, the principal landowners and the agricultural authorities were consulted about the use of this land and raised no objection to the War Department proposals. Since this time no representations have been received from these authorities in respect of any part of this training area.