HC Deb 07 March 1927 vol 203 cc831-2
38. Lieut.-Colonel HENEAGE

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he can make any announcement with regard to the introduction this Session of legislation for the amendment of the law of land drainage in England and Wales?

Mr. GUINNESS

A Bill will be introduced shortly to deal with the special case of the area drained by the River Ouse, which was investigated and reported on last year by a special Commission. With regard, however, to any general amendment of the law of land drainage, the Government have come to the conclusion that the whole question should be examined by a Royal Commission before fresh legislation of a general character is introduced. I hope to announce the composition and terms of reference of the Royal Commission very shortly.

Lieut.-Colonel HENEAGE

Will the right hon. Gentleman say whether the terms of reference will include investigation of sea defences and coast erosion?

Mr. GUINNESS

No; it is merely a matter of land drainage.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

Will the terms of reference include the possibility of charging people who benefit from the land drainage for the cost of the land drainage?

Mr. GUINNESS

Certainly; the whole object of the inquiry is to see whether the burden is now fairly borne.

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