HC Deb 10 December 1929 vol 233 cc217-8
12. Sir KINGSLEY WOOD

asked the Lord Privy Seal whether any works have been sanctioned which would mitigate unemployment and make further provision against the Thames floods?

14. Captain MACDONALD

asked the Lord Privy Seal whether he is aware of the existence of a plan for dealing with the periodical flooding of the Thames Valley; and, if so, can he tell the House how many men would be employed on such a scheme and what steps he proposes to take to encourage the responsible authorities to put it into operation?

Mr. THOMAS

A comprehensive drainage scheme for the Thames catchment area has been discussed at various times. Its execution must await the legislation which my right hon. Friend the Minister of Agriculture hopes to introduce in the near future. Meanwhile, limited schemes for the Wey Valley and the Thames at the Wey outlet have been submitted. These schemes have been the subject of local inquiries, and it is expected that a decision will shortly be given. These limited schemes would, if sanctioned, employ, in respect of the Thames 375 men for three years, and in respect of the Wey 600 men for 18 months. In addition schemes for the Thames at the mouth are under consideration by the London County Council.

Sir K. WOOD

Is not the Lord Privy Seal aware of the seriousness of the position at the present time so far as the Thames floods are concerned, and could he not really do something immediately, in the course of his efforts to mitigate unemployment?

Mr. THOMAS

It is a cause of serious concern, but it is not so serious as in the case of the last Thames floods. If legislation had then been introduced, we could have got on with the work.

Sir K. WOOD

Is not the Lord Privy Seal aware that the matter is very urgent indeed, and cannot he take some steps?

HON. MEMBERS

Why did you not take steps?

Mr. THOMAS

It is because it is so urgent that I have had interviews with the authorities, but, unfortunately, legislation is necessary.

Captain AUSTIN HUDSON

Does the statement outlined include anything about the River Lea, which is very much bound up with the flooding scheme?