MINISTRY OF DEFENCE SITE CLOSURES

That this House is concerned by the Government's proposed closure of almost 100 Ministry of Defence sites across the UK; notes the detrimental impact these closures will have on civilian and military staff and their families; further notes the socio-economic impact on local communities; is further concerned by the lack of consultation with representatives of civilian staff or community leaders; is aware a detailed financial assessment has not been made of the cost linked to closing sites and preparing them for resale, including decontamination works; notes that the Government has failed to carry out a site-by-site socio-economic impact assessment; and calls on the Government to delay closure of these sites to allow time for full consideration regarding the future of the defence estate with local community leaders, military and civilian staff.