asked the Secretary of State for Air what is the size of the area of Cannock Chase at present requisitioned by his Department; for what purposes it is being used; and when he proposes to derequisition it.

The R.A.F. holds 460 acres of Cannock Chase. Three hundred and ninety acres are used as a range for the demolition of explosives; 70 acres form part of a technical training school. The Air Ministry wish to keep this land, but before a decision is taken their proposals will come before the Interdepartmental Committee on Service Land Requirements.

Is the Minister aware that this question is causing grave concern in the West Midlands; that the whole of the Cannock Chase has previously been a rural amenity accessible to the public in peacetime; and will there be a local inquiry, at which the local authorities can express their views, before any decision is taken on this matter?

I have no doubt that under the general arrangements to be made a public inquiry will be held, if so desired. As for the access to the public, I hope that for nearly all the time, except when actual explosions are going on, access to the public will be maintained, and I hope the amenities will not be damaged in any way.