asked the Secretary of State for Defence if he will state his Department's current policy towards the proposed pipeline assembly yard at Morrich Mhor, near Tain, Rosshire; and if he will make a statement.

My Department was approached in September 1985 by Land and Marine with a request to use a strip of land at the edge of the RAF range at Tain as the site for a pipeline assembly yard. My Department considered the proposals and was satisfied that by the application of stringent safety procedures the construction work could be accommodated as had been requested.I understand that Land and Marine's application for planning permission is with my right hon. and learned Friend the Secretary of State for Scotland.