§ Mr. Stephen Rossasked the Secretary of State for the Environment, in view of the fact that land in the ownership of Government Departments which is already designated as an area of outstanding national beauty or which is of international scientific importance to nature conservation should have these attributes preserved by the Government for the nation; and what steps he is taking to guarantee the future of Thorney Island, West Sussex in these respects now that it has been declared surplus to Ministry of Defence requirements.
§ Mr. MarksYes, where it is practicable to do so. However, this is initially a matter for decision by the local planning authority which, in the case of Thorney Island, has published a comprehensive consultation document to elicit the views of the interests concerned.