§ 27. Mr. D. Jonesasked the Minister of Transport whether he is in a position to indicate his policy in regard to grants of financial assistance to port and harbour authorities whose sea defences and equipment were severely damaged in the heavy floods of January last.
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydDock and harbour authorities who incurred losses as a result of the January storm will receive financial assistance in so far as those losses were excessively heavy in relation to their resources.
§ Mr. JonesWhile thanking the right hon. Gentleman for his observations, may I ask why it has taken his Department until 15th June to tell this authority that they would, in fact, receive some assistance? Is he aware that this authority is going ahead with the repairing of breakwaters and unless something is done speedily they will find themselves in financial difficulties?
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydI am aware that The Hartlepools put in a claim for something like £30,000 and other ports put in varying sums, but there were a number of details that had to be settled before it was possible formally to notify the dock and harbour authorities. I am sorry if it has taken rather long.
§ Mr. JonesCan the Minister say if up to now a definite reply has been given to the Port and Harbour Authority at The Hartlepools.
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydThe Dock and Harbour Authorities Association have heard formally from my Department.