51. Lady Nod-Buxtonasked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the serious erosion on the Norfolk coast, involving a threat to Norwich, he will consider making the protection of the coast the responsibility of a single authority, and at a national charge.
§ The Prime MinisterIn so far as coast erosion affects land drainage interests, I would refer my hon. Friend to the reply given by my right hon. Friend the Minis- 1916 ter of Agriculture and. Fisheries to the hon. Member for Northern Norfolk (Mr. Gooch) on 18th February. So far as coast erosion which does not affect land drainage interests is concerned, no Government grants are at present available. The Government are considering the question of a greater concentration of Ministerial responsibility, but I am not At present in a position to make a statement.
§ Sir Henry Morris-JonesWill the right hon. Gentleman indicate when he hopes to be able to make a statement on this matter? Will he take note of the fact that North Wales is affected in this respect more than any other part of the United Kingdom at the present time?
§ The Prime MinisterYes, Sir. My reply does not relate to any particular area, but to the general question of dealing with coast erosion.
§ Brigadier MedlicottIs not the Prime Minister aware that the sea did break through at this point 10 years ago, and that but for the fact that it broke through on a receding tide it would probably have reached Norwich? As this is a very grave problem, would he send a responsible official to the coast to see what it is that is so disturbing the local inhabitants?
§ The Prime MinisterThe matter is being looked into.
§ Mr. KinleyIs my right hon. Friend aware that the work of the protection of the coast of Britain is put on to the resources of the local authorities, when it probably belongs to the Government? Will he examine the position from that angle?