Written question asked by Gerald Howarth (Conservative), in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 28 July 1997. It was answered by Lord Spellar (Labour) on Monday, 28 July 1997 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Ministry of Defence

Question: When he expects to announce his decision on the Government's preferred bidder to acquire the Farnborough aerodrome; and if he will set out a timetable for the disposal.

Answer: Mr. Howarth: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence when he expects to announce his decision on the Government's preferred bidder to acquire the Farnborough aerodrome; and if he will set out a timetable for the disposal. [10790] Mr. Spellar: My officials are currently considering the expressions of interest in Farnborough which have been received and I expect to have their final recommendation in the very near future. It is still our intention to identify an airfield operator in time for it to be in a position to make full representations to the Rushmore borough council local plan inquiry in Spring 1998. A formal lease will not be entered into until a full Civil Aviation Authority licence and planning permission are issued. The lease will reflect the Ministry of Defence's and the airfield operator's continued commitment to the long-term future of Society of British Aerospace Company air show. The intention is for the operator to be on site and operational in time for the Society of British Aerospace Company's 2000 air show.

Secondary information