§ Mr. CohenTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence, pursuant to his answer to the hon. Member for Newbury (Mr. McNair-Wilson), 29 April,Official Report, columns 310–11 (a) what are his plans for the future use of RAF Greenham Common, (b) what further construction on the base is planned with the exception of those buildings required to comply with the INF treaty and related agreements and (c) whether his Department proposes to remove the legal obstacle referred to in his answer by legislation; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. FreemanRAF Greenham Common has been designated as a NATO standby operating base for many years and we envisage that this role will continue after the cruise missiles are withdrawn in three years' time. No decisions have yet been taken on any additional roles for the base thereafter. At present the main proposals for further construction, apart from buildings required for INF inspection purposes, are plans to build a communications mast and to replace outdated accommodation for single airmen. However the Ministry of Defence must retain flexibility over the use of this important base consistent with the normal planning procedures appropriate to Crown land. The decision announced on 29 April to negotiate fair compensation for 511W the legal extinguishment of the rights of common under the provisions of the Defence Act 1954 should ensure this flexibility without recourse to legislation.