HC Deb 26 February 1953 vol 511 cc2278-9
13. Mr. Bullard

asked the Minister of Agriculture how he proposes to give financial assistance to those internal drainage boards whose areas were affected by the recent floods; and whether he will inform them as soon as possible as to the work which will be accepted as a national charge.

Sir T. Dugdale

Emergency repairs to sea defences protecting internal drainage districts are being done by river boards, who will be fully reimbursed for the expenses they incur on this work. The Government are also meeting the cost of clearing drains and ditches which have been blocked by debris where this is done within a month after the sealing of the gaps in the adjacent sea walls.

I hope to make an announcement soon regarding Government assistance for the more permanent works that must be done before next autumn.

Mr. Bullard

Does my right hon. Friend consider that this assistance will cover such work as the repair of bridges and other minor works and machinery, and so on, which were seriously damaged in countering the major floods?

Sir T. Dugdale

The Question and answer referred to sea defences. I cannot go further than that today.