HC Deb 09 February 1948 vol 447 c31
54. Mr. Orr-Ewing

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether the work is now to start on the Ken land drainage scheme which he wrote on 22nd February, 1947, would commence shortly.

Mr. T. Williams

The Somerset Rivers Catchment Board made application for grant last July, and since then various important engineering and other problems have been under consideration between engineers of my Department and the Catchment Board. As soon as these matters have been cleared, the question of a starting date will be considered.

Mr. Orr-Ewing

In view of the fact that an early commencement of the work was promised as far back as the date stated in the Question, can the Minister say when these negotiations will reach finality, because it is really a very serious matter and a lot of valuable land will continue to run to waste until the work is done?

Mr. Williams

The hon. Gentleman must be aware that that is a matter for the drainage engineers.

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