§ Mr. Ronnie CampbellTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will list, for each of the last five years, the amount of land in the Northumberland national park used by the Army, Navy and Air Force.
§ Mr. Archie HamiltonThat part of Otterburn training area which lies within the Northumberland national park area has been as follows:
- 1988 23,364 hectares freehold
- 1989 23,364 hectares freehold
- 1990 23,364 hectares freehold
- 1991 23,379 hectares freehold
- 1992 23,379 hectares freehold
Since 1991, about 3,640 hectares within the national park (including Kidland, Kidlandlee and parts of Harwood forest) have been licensed for use up to a maximum of 28 days each year. In addition, some training has been carried out on private land such as Thirwell common and Blakehope fell without charge and by prior arrangement with the owners.
The land detailed is mostly used for training by the Army.
§ Mr. Ronnie CampbellTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will list, for each of the forthcoming five years, the amount of land in the Northumberland national park expected to be allocated for use by each of the armed services; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Archie HamiltonThe future use of land within Northumberland national park for military training is under review at present. It is too early to say what the precise future requirements will be.