§ Dr. David ClarkTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement concerning his Department's booklet on access to Ministry of Defence land; how many copies of this booklet were produced; what was the total cost of production; for what reasons it was withdrawn; and if he will make a statement on his future plans for the booklet. [8790]
§ Mr. SoamesA booklet which encourages public access to the defence estate and highlights several walks was issued by my Department earlier this year; 250,000 copies were produced at a total cost of £66,000. It has since been discovered that the third map in the Longmoor section of the booklet incorrectly indicates that two footpaths are available to the public at all times. This is not the case, and in view of the potential implications for public safety the booklet has been withdrawn temporarily. Arrangements are in hand to amend all remaining stocks and to advise members of the public of this, providing amended copies of the booklet where appropriate. Action has also been taken to place additional warning signs at the site to advise members of the public of the correct position.