§ 59. Major Legge-Bourkeasked the Minister of Agriculture what steps he is taking, in view of the wet summer and early autumn, to ensure that all feasible measures are taken to prevent widespread flooding, especially in the Fens.
Mr. T. WilliamsResponsibility for taking preventive measures rests with the statutory drainage authorities, which have recently been reminded of Government help available to supplement local resources, should these seem likely to prove inadequate.
§ Major Legge-BourkeWill the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind the good work done by the Royal Engineers in 1947? Will he see if something can be done to have various items of equipment available in the areas likely to be flooded?
Mr. WilliamsThe hon. and gallant Member may not be aware of it, but it is a fact that the same kind of equipment is ready and available today.
§ 60. Major Legge-Bourkeasked the Minister of Agriculture if he will make a statement on the progress made with the River Great Ouse Catchment Board's Flood Prevention Scheme, giving the date when work will begin and the interim measures that are being taken pending the completion of the new works.
Mr. T. WilliamsNegotiations between the Catchment Board and parties protected by the River Great Ouse (Flood Protection) Act, 1949, continue, and it is hoped that agreement will be reached shortly. In the meantime, a series of trial borings is being made, and consulting engineers are engaged in the design and contract drawings. Site work should begin in 1952. Interim measures during the year ending in March next will cost about £100,000.