HC Deb 12 December 1929 vol 233 cc668-70
Mr. BOYCE

(by Private Notice) asked the First Commissioner of Works whether he has anything to communicate with regard to the possibility of the flooding of private dwelling-houses and other buildings in the London area; what steps his Department has taken, or is taking, to prevent such an occurrence; and whether he can definitely assure the House that such steps are adequate?

Mr. GREENWOOD

I have been asked to reply. The responsibility in connection with flood prevention works rests with the London County Council, not with the Government. The London County Council has been taking special measures since the flood of January of last year to strengthen the protective works. I am advised that there is no present reason to expect any abnormal difficulties.

Mr. HARRIS

Is it not the fact that the London County Council have done very little to remedy this matter, their excuse being that the powers are in the hands of private owners? Will the right hon. Gentleman consider taking urgent measures to deal with what is a very real serious danger at the moment?

Captain MACDONALD

Is it not the fact that the London Conservancy Board have already a scheme prepared which they are quite ready to put into operation if the Government will only introduce the necessary legislation?

Mr. GREENWOOD

It is quite clear that the major responsibility rests with the London County Council. If the works that are necessary come within the category of those to which the Lord Privy Seal has referred, then a speedier method of legislation will no doubt be applied. With regard to the Thames Conservancy Board, I understand that the scheme is now the subject of very sympathetic consideration by my right hon. Friend.

Sir K. WOOD

Is the right hon. Gentleman not aware that on the occasion of the last floods his predecessor at the Ministry of Health called together the local authorities concerned, with a view, if possible, of devising some further steps and precautions? Does he not think that in the present exceptional circumstances he might see what can be done in the same direction?

Mr. GREENWOOD

That committee of investigation by engineers sent back a report, which is in the hands of the London County Council.

Sir F. HALL

Does it not show that the London County Council, in spite of what the hon. Member for South-West Bethnal Green (Mr. Harris) says, have carried out their duties in a perfectly satisfactory manner?

Mr. HORE-BELISHA

What is being done with regard to the pictures and drawings in the Tate Gallery in order to prevent a repetition of what occurred last winter?

Mr. GREENWOOD

That is a question that should go to the First Commissioner of Works.

Mr. HORE-BELISHA

I understood that the original question was addressed to him and that you were answering.