HC Deb 16 February 1955 vol 537 c365
17. Mr. Odey

asked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation what steps he is proposing to take to abate the flooding of Captain Newlove's farm and the surrounding area in Woodmansey in the East Riding of Yorkshire caused by the new culvert on the Hull—Beverley road which was built by the East Riding County Council in March, 1950.

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

As my hon. Friend is aware, full responsibility in respect of the flooding of Captain Newlove's farm has not been accepted by my Department. Experts representing both Captain New love and my Department have now agreed on a remedial drainage scheme and details of this are at present being prepared.

Mr. Odey

While thanking my right hon. Friend for that reply, may I inquire why nearly five years have elapsed before steps have been taken to deal with this matter?

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

The main reasons are two. In the first place, this began as a matter of litigation, and it was only after the settlement of the intended proceedings that it was possible to investigate the details and the rights of third parties also involved.