asked the Minister of Supply what steps are being taken to remove the ammunition and explosive shells which are still being stored in the Forest of Dean; and whether he will indicate approximately the time when it will all be gone.

Only small-calibre ammunition is now stored in the Forest of Dean. Intensive research is being carried out to find the best means of treating this ammunition so as to enable it to be safely moved and dumped at sea, or alternatively to evolve a method for safe destruction on the spot. It is not yet possible to say when the sites will be clear.