§ 81. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYasked the Minister of Health the steps 1852 being taken to meet the danger of floods along the River Thames, especially in the Millbank district?
§ Mr. GREENWOODI am informed by the London County Council that in March last they fixed new standards for Thames flood defences in the county, and that they are taking all possible steps to expedite the work involved, but that the completion of the work must necessarily take much time. The system of warnings recommended by the Committee appointed in 1928 to consider the question of floods from the Thames has been put in operation. I may add that, in accordance with a request made to me, I have summoned a conference of the interests concerned to consider the co-ordination of all activities relating to flood prevention in the tidal portion of the Thames.
§ Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHYHas my right hon. Friend powers to deal with those authorities who are not moving fast enough?
§ Mr. GREENWOODThere are no legal powers, but all the local authorities interested are only too anxious to arrive at agreement.
§ Mr. EDEWill the right hon. Gentleman also include the county councils of the tidal reaches of the Thames above London in the proposed conference?
§ Mr. GREENWOODOh, yes.
§ Major CHURCHMay I ask what?other forms of warning besides wireless signals are issued. What form of warning, for example, would have been given of the high tide last Saturday if this had taken place at 3 o'clock in the morning, instead of 3 o'clock in the after-noon?
§ Mr. GREENWOODThere is, as a matter of fact, a very elaborate organisation now which utilises all public services for the purpose of warning.