HC Deb 23 March 1993 vol 221 c533W
Mr. Ian Bruce

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, pursuant to his answer of 12 November,Official Report, column 883, if he has reached a decision on the future of operational sea training at Portland.

Mr. Archie Hamilton

Having given full and careful consideration to the representations made, I have decided to proceed with the transfer of operational sea training from Portland to Devonport and to close Portland naval base by April 1996. We will continue to consult the trades unions about the implications for staff, and will also work closely with the Portland area local authorities to investigate possible alternative commercial uses for the naval base.