HC Deb 20 July 1966 vol 732 cc96-7W
78. Mr. Wingfield Digby

asked the Secretary of State for Defence why no discussion took place with the farmer and landowner of the Sydling Rifle Range before a new byelaw was circulated, prohibiting his stock from entering 90 acres of his farm for the first time, although the range has been in regular use since the last war ; and what local consultations took place, in view of the objections lodged by the county council and parish council.

Mr. Reynolds

The existing rights of landowners are not prejudiced by the proposed byelaw. The Military Lands Act, 1892 does not provide for consultation, but all objections will be considered before the byelaw is made. I am writing to the hon. Gentleman to explain this more fully.