§ 47. Mr. Goochasked the Prime Minister whether the Government Department to deal with coast erosion has now been determined; and if he will indicate the policy to be pursued.
§ The Prime MinisterNo, Sir. I have nothing at present to add to the reply which I gave on 25th July to the hon. Member for Canterbury (Mr. Baker White), but I hope shortly to be in a position to make a statement.
§ Lieut.-Commander Gurney BraithwaiteWhile the right hon. Gentleman is considering the matter, would he bear in mind that there are certain areas where serious coast erosion has taken place owing to local authorities being unable to carry out normal defence measures during hostilities, because of occupation by the military authorities? Would he look sympathetically at these areas?
§ The Prime MinisterYes, Sir, I am aware of that. We are having a careful investigation made of the whole problem, 510 and an engineer's report is now under examination.
§ Mr. Edward EvansIs my right hon. Friend aware of the great anxiety felt on the East coast, in places where an intolerable burden has been placed on the rates, a burden which it is almost impossible for them to bear?
§ The Prime MinisterYes, Sir, that is one of the points which is being considered.