HC Deb 02 November 1948 vol 457 c660
19 and 20. Mr. E. P. Smith

asked the Secretary of State for War (1) why, in view of the fact that the Military Canal has been cleaned and dredged as far as Appledore, it has not been cleaned from Appledore to Iden Bridge; and when he proposes to renew the rotted lock-gates at the junction with the River Rother; and

(2) what steps he is taking to replace those Huntingdon elms fringing the Military Canal from Appledore to Rye, which have died; and if he is aware that, there being no undergrowth along the canal, the north bank will, in time, be in danger of slipping.

Mr. Shinwell

The canal and towpath have for many years been leased to the Kent Rivers Catchment Board, who have recently acquired the freehold of the part referred to, including the lock gates. The matters referred to in these Questions are, therefore, the responsibility of the Board.

Mr. Smith

Was any sum paid by the War Office to the catchment board concerned, in view of the fact that that stretch of the canal was badly in need of dredging at the time of transfer, and did the conveyance contain any stipulations for its proper upkeep?

Mr. Shinwell

There is nothing in the Question about finance.

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