§ 34. Mr. DAYasked the Minister of Agriculture what progress has been made with the drainage scheme for the Thames catchment area; and whether he is satisfied that full provision has been made against the periodical flooding in the Thames area?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of AGRICULTURE (Mr. Ramsbotham)Comprehensive schemes of improvement on the River Wey and on the Thames between Shepperton and Teddington have recently been completed, the value of which was clearly demonstrated last winter. These schemes were initiated and carried out by the Surrey County Council in the case of the River Wey and by the Surrey and Middlesex County Councils in the case of the Thames, with a financial contribution from the Conservators of the River Thames. The Conservators, who are now the drainage board for the Thames catchment area above Teddington, have also practically completed a scheme of dredging work on the main river above Oxford, and are now, I understand, considering what further works they can undertake to secure the alleviation of the floods and generally to improve the drainage system of the catchment area.
§ Mr. DAYHas anything been done in the Thames area to prevent a recurrence of flooding as far as possible?