§ 32. Colonel CLIFTON BROWNasked the hon. and gallant Member for Rye, as representing the Forestry Commissioners, if he is aware that the risk of floods on the low-lying lands of the North Tyne River has been greatly increased by the open drains cut for the forestry operation at Kielder; and what steps the Commissioners are taking to prevent this?
§ Colonel Sir GEORGE COURTHOPE (Forestry Commissioner)The North Tyne River was subject to very severe floods prior to any draining by the Forestry Commissioners, who do not admit that the risk of floods has been increased by their operations.
§ Sir G. COURTHOPECertainly it will be watched with the greatest care, but planting operations will tend in the long run to hold up water and diminish the risk of floods.