§ 44. Mr. McAddenasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that Thorpe Bay is a seaside resort, and that a swimming pool is a desirable amenity for the many visitors; and whether he will therefore reconsider his decision to refuse loan sanction to the Southend County Borough Council for the purpose of reconditioning this swimming pool.
§ Mr. BevanThis scheme, like other similar ones, must, unfortunately, be deferred for the time being.
§ Mr. McAddenIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that this is one of the closest seaside resorts to London and that thousands of visitors from working class homes go there every year, sometimes only for a day? Is he aware that the tide in this district recedes somewhat and, unless the swimming pool is provided, they may go home without the benefit of having a swim?
§ Mr. BevanI can understand the concern of the hon. Member about this, but we cannot allow all schemes to proceed simultaneously, or they would smother one another.
§ Sir Herbert WilliamsDoes the right hon. Gentleman think that such a swimming pool would attract more people to Southend than the Festival of Britain will attract to London?