A US spy base in the region appears set for a major expansion.

Hundreds of National Security Agency personnel, stationed in Germany, are understood to be on their way to Menwith Hill, overlooking Harrogate, North Yorkshire.

Their role will be to intercept military and personal communications of interest to the US and her allies.

However, the redeployment - which follows the closure of the Bad Aibling base, in Bavaria - is already fuelling concern over the extent of the base's involvement in the so-called "Son of Stars Wars" missile defence programme, supported by President George W Bush.

There have also been claims the hi-tech listening facilities have been used to help American companies strengthen their grip on the global markets.

"I think it's time we re-evaluated the American bases in this country," said newly re-elected Liberal Democrat MP for Harrogate, Phil Willis, yesterday.

"It is all very well for President Bush to tell us we need to re-examine our capabilities now the Cold War is over - but it should be for Britain to take a pro-active role deciding if we need bases like Fylingdales and Menwith Hill, not America."

Also pushing for consultation was Harrogate Borough Council leader, Geoff Webber.

He said: "It is not the number of American personnel at the base which worries us but the role Menwith will play if the National Missile Defence screen is introduced.

"Will it mean heightened risk of terrorist activity, and will it mean the camp becomes a target for peace campaigners?"