HL Deb 30 June 1998 vol 591 cc75-6WA
Lord Ponsonby of Shulbrede

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What plans they have to reduce the defence estate in London. [HL2496]

Lord Hoyle

We have been considering the scope for further rationalisation of our property holdings in London and elsewhere in the context of the Strategic Defence Review. In continuation of that work, the Ministry of Defence will be drawing up a strategic development plan for the defence estate in the Greater London area. Work on the plan will involve a thorough examination of site values and costs, linked to their condition and utilisation, with a view to identifying opportunities to meet defence requirements more cost-effectively. Any specific proposals for unit moves that may arise from this work will be subject to further study and consultation in the normal way. Existing studies, such as those relating to RAF Northolt and RAF Uxbridge, will be fully taken into account.