Oral Answers to Questions

Mike Weir Excerpts

Monday 13th March 2017 Commons Chamber

[Harriett Baldwin]

My hon. Friend is absolutely right to highlight the importance of the Royal Navy. Of course, 2017 is the year of the Royal Navy as it prepares to welcome the new aircraft carriers, submarines, frigates, offshore patrol vessels and the aircrafts from which to fly.

[Mike Weir (Angus) (SNP)]

9. What progress he has made on implementing the defence estate strategy.

[The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Defence (Mark Lancaster)]

The Ministry of Defence is conducting a series of detailed assessments at affected sites, which is expected to take 12 to 18 months to complete. The assessments will more precisely define the exact moves, but good progress is being made.

[Mike Weir]

When launching the reviews, Ministers said that they would release land for housing and boost local economies. What weight is the Minister giving to projects for affordable housing and other community projects in determining the price that is asked?

[Mark Lancaster]

The disposal of land has to follow Treasury guidelines, but I am delighted that Angus Council has expressed an interest in purchasing the land at RM Condor in the hon. Gentleman’s constituency. I am equally delighted that progress will continue on Thursday, when Defence Infrastructure Organisation officials will meet council officials.