§ Mr. CummingsTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement concerning the relocation of the Seaham Harbour sea cadets; and if he will pay a visit to the Seaham Harbour cadet corps.
§ Mr. Archie HamiltonThe sea cadet corps is constitutionally not part of the Royal Navy but an independent voluntary civilian youth organisation with charitable status to which the Ministry of Defence makes an annual grant. I understand that the Seaham Harbour sea cadets are currently negotiating locally for a plot of land on which to erect new premises to replace their present temporary accommodation. My right hon. Friend has no plans at present to visit Seaham.