§ SIR EDWARD WATKINasked the President of the Board of Trade, Whether, considering the constant loss of life and property inside the point of Dungeness, and the insecurity of that part of the coast of England, the Government propose to advise the construction of a safety harbour and of works of defence at or near Dungeness?
§ SIR CHARLES ADDERLEYThere is no intention. Sir, of advising the expenditure of public money in the construction of a harbour of refuge at Dungeness. An improvement in the lighting of the point was made at the beginning of the present winter by the addition of a second light at the extreme edge of the shore, as it was found that the beach was growing out. There is also a powerful fog signal at the point. As to any works of defence at Dungeness, it is not a matter in my Department. I can only say I have heard of no such proposal. As to the constant loss of life inside the point, a Question was put to me by the hon. Member last year assuming that in the six miles between Romney and Dungeness 20 vessels were stranded every year. This number, on a Return being made, appeared to be greatly exaggerated—being six instead of 20 wrecks, as stated.
§ SIR EDWARD WATKINgave Notice that, in consequence of the right hon. Gentleman's answer, he would call attention to the subject on the Motion for going into Committee of Supply.