HC Deb 19 February 1930 vol 235 cc1363-4
41. Mr. D. G. SOMERVILLE

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies whether, in estimating the amount of money required for the Zambesi bridge and railway extensions connected therewith, adequate allowance has been made for insuring against the possibility of the Zambesi and other rivers in the district changing their courses as a result of floods; and whether, in view of the recent unprecedented inundations, any further investigations are to be made in this connection?

Dr. SHIELS

As the result of special investigations during recent flood seasons modifications were made in the estimates, which are considered adequate to meet all such contingencies as those mentioned.

Mr. SOMERVILLE

The estimates were increased, then, from the original estimates?

Dr. SHIELS

The estimates were modified. I cannot exactly state whether they were increased or not, but they were modified in deference to the alterations suggested by the consulting engineers who were sent out.