Written question asked by Michael John Foster (Labour) on Thursday, 13 January 2000, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 2 February 2000. It was answered by Lord Moonie (Labour) on Wednesday, 2 February 2000 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Ministry of Defence

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what rights of access currently exist for walkers on his Department's land. - Inc ref to "Walks on MOD Lands", copy in Library (Dep 00/257).

Answer: 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.

Secondary information