Mr. KINGasked the Secretary to the Treasury whether contributions from the Development Grant are available to strengthen sea walls against irruption of high tides; and, if so, whether he will make a grant to the Somersetshire Commissioners of Sewers, within whose area, at Kingston Seymour, there is danger of inundation, and who have inadequate resources to maintain and strengthen the existing sea-bank?
Mr. McKINNON WOODI fear that the strengthening of sea walls against the irruption of high tides would not be a purpose for which a Grant could be made from the Development Fund, but I hesitate to express an opinion on the subject without having a full statement of the facts before me. In any case, as the hon. Member is aware, the Treasury is unable to make an advance from the fund unless the Development Commission recommend it.