§ Mr. GrayTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what(a) economic and (b) environmental impact studies were carried out into the effects of the closure of RAF Lyneham; and if he will publish them. [126363]
§ Mr. Ingram[holding answer 16 July 2003]: An environmental and sustainability appraisal was undertaken by the RAF in relation to the Strategic Review for RAF Lyneham, RAF Brize Norton and RAF St. Mawgan. In addition, the Ministry of Defence's Directorate of Economic Advice produced an assessment of the economic impact of a decision to close RAF Lyneham. A copy of these documents will be placed in the Library of the House. A regional impact assessment was carried out in relation to the Strategic Review which included an assessment of the socio-economic effects of the various options being considered by the Review. This information is being withheld under Exemption 7 of the Code of Practice on Access to Government Information.