§ 15. Mr. DAYasked the President of the Board of Trade whether his attention has been called to the increasing subsidence of land and consequent damage to property on the coast road between Newhaven and Worthing; and whether he proposes to take any action in the matter?
§ Mr. W. GRAHAMI am aware that a certain amount of erosion has occurred on this section of the coast, and my Department has from time to time sanctioned the construction of protective works. The Board have, however, no power to initiate schemes for sea defence or to compel the local authorities responsible for the various areas to do so.
§ Mr. DAYMay I ask whether the right hon. Gentleman's inspectors make a regular visit to this part of the coast?
§ Mr. GRAHAMI Cannot say offhand as to inspection, but I know that they are familiar with the whole question of coast erosion, which was the subject of a Bill introduced into the House, though I am afraid the Government cannot find time for the remaining stages.
§ Mr. DAYWill the right hon. Gentleman ask these inspectors to pay particular attention to this part of the coast?
§ Mr. GRAHAMI will look into the point to which the hon. Member refers.
§ Captain PETER MACDONALDIs it the intention to proceed with the Bill this Session?
§ Mr. GRAHAMNo. The Prime Minister has already indicated that it may not be possible to make further progress 1950 with the Bill. I am afraid that is beyond doubt.
§ Major COLFOXWould it not be better to drop some of the other items in the programme of the Government?