HL Deb 09 March 1999 vol 598 cc15-6WA
Lord Kennet

asked Her Majesty's Government:

When a Minister last went to Menwith Hill, the United States military base in the United Kingdom; how long he was there; and whether he was able to see and understand all the activities carried on there by the United States personnel. [HL1292]

Lord Gilbert

Since 1 May 1997, no Minister of the present Administration has visited RAF Menwith Hill. Relevant Ministers are, however, kept informed of all its activities.

Lord Kennet

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they monitor the activities which they permit the United States to carry on at Menwith Hill, including policing carried out by the United States personnel, to ensure that they do not compromise the rights and interests, commercial, social or other, of United Kingdom or other European Union citizens or firms. [HL1294]

Lord Gilbert

Her Majesty's Government are aware of the activities carried out by US personnel at RAF Menwith Hill. The policing at RAF Menwith Hill is carried out by Ministry of Defence Police.

Lord Kennet

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether the United States authorities at Menwith Hill enjoy, either directly or indirectly, any form of "Crown Immunity" from planning or any other law; and if so, by what authority. [HL1295]

Lord Gilbert

Planning and other laws apply to RAF Menwith Hill in the same terms as to other defence establishments.