HC Deb 07 November 1945 vol 415 cc1254-5
5. Mr. Thomas Lewis

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he is aware of the representations made by the Southampton Harbour Board since April last and of its communication on 13th October, to which no reply has yet been received, regarding the continued use of the River Hamble by naval craft, thus preventing a return to its use by a large number of private yacht and boat owners, hindering normal trading, including yacht and boat building, repairing and servicing in the port of Southampton; and will he consider issuing instructions that naval craft shall cease to use the River Hamble and the mooring sites therein, before the commencement of the yachting season in April next year.

Mr. Alexander

I understand the desire of the Southampton Harbour Board to secure the return of their moorings and mooring sites in the River Hamble. Twelve moorings previously in naval use are being released immediately. Every endeavour will be made to release the others as soon as possible; but it may prove necessary to retain many of them at least until June next. My hon. Friend will appreciate that there are now large numbers of naval vessels in this country whose disposal is bound to be a long process. The problem is complicated by manpower difficulties which require the concentration of vessels where they can most conveniently be maintained. The Southampton Harbour Board were informed in this sense in a letter dated 2nd November.

Mr. Lewis

Is my right hon. Friend aware that the total removal of 12 vessels is useless, as there are 200 vessels moored there, and is he aware that if the vessels are not removed by April next, the position will be serious?

Mr. Alexander

I am anxious to do all I can to release the moorings, but my hon. Friend must remember the difficulties I have. There are hundreds of landing craft and other vessels which, unless we can dispose of them in the public interest, will be a great public waste. I must find accommodation for them somewhere, but I will release as many moorings as I can.

Mr. Lewis

Is my right hon. Friend aware that if he waits until 200 vessels have been disposed of, the moorings may not be released for years?