RAF Finningley (Hansard, 26 October 1994)

§ Mr. Redmond
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what alternative defence uses are being considered for RAF Finningley.

§ Mr. Soames
No alternative defence uses have yet been identified for RAF Finningley. In accordance with departmental procedures, however, a full inter-service trawl will be undertaken in parallel with the consultation period to identify any possible alternative defence uses, in the event that a decision to close RAF Finningley is taken after formal consultation.

§ Mr. Redmond
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what procedures will be followed if the MOD decides to dispose of the RAF Finningley site.

§ Mr. Soames
If it is decided to dispose of RAF Finningley, standard departmental procedures would be followed. This would include discussions with the local authority on future use and the appointment of consultants to advise on a disposal strategy and optimum method of sale.

§ Mr. Redmond
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will hold discussions with Doncaster metropolitan borough council and the local regeneration partnership on how RAF Finningley could become a joint military and civilian airfield.

§ Mr. Soames
The proposal to close RAF Finningley will be subject to full consultation with trade unions and other interested parties. I would be happy to receive details of any substantive proposals regarding future use the site that Doncaster metropolitan borough council may wish to put forward as part of the consultation process.