HC Deb 02 February 2000 vol 343 cc587-8W
Mr. Michael J. Foster

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what rights of access currently exist for walkers on his Department's land. [105498]

Dr. Moonie

There is a presumption of access to MOD land wherever this is consistent with military activities, the health and safety of the public, environmental and conservation considerations, and the interests of our tenants. There have been leaflets and publications available for some years, most notably the booklet "Walks on MOD Lands", giving information about access opportunities on the Defence Estate. A copy of this booklet will be placed in the Library of the House. My Department is working to improve both public access and the provision of information. The booklet is currently under review and a revision will be published later in the year. Work is also being undertaken to develop an access website.