HC Deb 12 December 1944 vol 406 cc1053-4
78. Major C. S. Taylor

asked the Minister of Supply how his Department proposes to dispose of the tubular scaffolding which was used for the protection of the beaches in certain coastal areas.

The Joint Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Supply (Mr. John Wilmot)

Tubular scaffolding used for the protection of beaches will be disposed of by the War Office, either as scrap or for use in agriculture. Such scaffolding does not conform with British standard specifications, and its use for ordinary scaffolding construction might be dangerous. The Ministry of Supply have agreed to this, and are arranging for the war agricultural executive committees to acquire, on behalf of farmers, any tubular scaffolding they want for genuine agricultural purposes.

Major Taylor

In the first place I addressed this Question to the War Office. I am now told that the War Office will be responsible for disposing of this scaffolding. Will the general public be given an opportunity to buy this scaffolding?

Mr. Wilmot

The Question is answered on behalf of the Ministry of Supply, as they have an overriding responsibility. Prospective buyers of this scaffolding should apply to the Director of Salvage at the War Office, or, if it is wanted for agricultural purposes, to the local war agricultural executive committees.

Major Sir Derrick Gunston

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that much of this scaffolding is embedded in rocks on the sea bottom? Will that be removed by the local authorities, or will the Government be responsible for its removal?

Mr. Wilmot

Questions on the method of removal had better be put down to the War Office.