HC Deb 09 October 1944 vol 403 cc1446-7

Nothing in this Act shall authorise the execution of any works, whether of construction, demolition or alteration on, over or under tidal lands below highwater mark of ordinary spring tides, except with the consent of any persons whose consent would have been required if this Act had not been passed, and except in accordance with such plans and sections and subject to such restrictions and conditions as, previous to such works being commenced, have been approved by the Minister of War Transport.—[Mr. W. S. Morrison.]

Brought up, and read the First time.

Mr. W. S. Morrison

I beg to move, "That the Clause be read a Second time."

This is a common form provision which appears in many Statutes, and it is designed to save the particular rights of the Minister of War Transport over these particular lands.

Mr. A. Bevan

Is the Minister quite satisfied about the use of the words, "Minister of War Transport"? I suppose he has not forgotten that that is a war-time Ministry. Suppose it comes to an end?

Mr. Morrison

If we decide to alter the title of that Ministry and to set up some other authority to look after this particular problem, then the legislation by which it is done would make the necessary references and changes.

Mr. Bevan

But is the Minister not aware that sometimes Ministries disappear overnight or are set up overnight without any Bills? Who would be the appropriate authority at that time?

Mr. Morrison

I think the hon. Member will find that any new authority created to look after these plans would assume and inherit all the rights and liabilities of its predecessor.

Commander Agnew (Camborne)

Would the right hon. Gentleman say whether the position of the Admiralty is safeguarded, and also the position of Trinity House?

Mr. Morrison

I do not think there is any danger that the position of the Admiralty and of Trinity House has not been adequately safeguarded. I cannot answer the point offhand, but I will look into it and see whether it is covered, though I rather think it is.

Question put, and agreed to.

Clause read a Second time, and added to the Bill.