RAF Newton

HC Deb 15 June 1995 vol 261 cc595-6W

Mr. Hargreaves

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what plans he has for the future of RAF Newton. [29412]

Mr. Soames

As part of the wider changes to RAF ground training, a consultative document was issued on 28 March 1995 recommending the relocation of headquarters air cadets from RAF Newton to RAF Cranwell, its merger with headquarters university air squadrons and the reduction of RAF Newton to an enclave. My Department has consulted thoroughly with trade unions and relevant local authorities, and full and careful consideration has been given to all the representations received.

Following this work, I am satisfied that no issues have been raised which will call into question the viability of the proposals, which will achieve significant annual running costs savings. I have therefore decided that the proposals should now be implemented.