asked the Secretary of State for Defence whether the Greenwich Hospital estate and its farm tenants have been consulted about the proposed new gas pipeline through Northumberland; and what steps he will take to ensure that the interests of the estate are protected.

I understand that British Gas is not yet in a position to discuss individually with the landowners or farm tenants the details of the route to be followed by the proposed pipeline, but this is a normal procedure which will be followed. Until the precise route has been established and the views of those affected have been ascertained I cannot say whether the interests of Greenwich Hospital will be adversely affected.