asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Civil Aviation if he will now state when Gatwick racecourse is to be derequisitioned.

Gatwick racecourse is now an essential part of Gatwick Aerodrome which is being extensively used for the testing of transport aircraft under modification on the aerodrome, for air charter work and for the Ministry of Civil Aviation's experimental and communication work. I can, therefore, give no promise that it will be derequisitioned.

Does the hon. Gentleman mean that it will be requisitioned permanently?

The answer means that I can give no promise when it will be derequisitioned. From my information, I think it will be in use for a number of years, for there is no alternative aerodrome within the London area.