HC Deb 28 November 1955 vol 546 c1924
35. Mr. Ridsdale

asked the Minister of Supply whether, in view of the fact that it is impossible to reach satisfactory arrangements with regard to compensation for damage in the Clacton area as a result of explosions from Foulness and Shoeburyness, he will agree to cease these explosions forthwith.

Mr. Maudling

I do not accept that arrangements with regard to compensation for damage are unsatisfactory. I am aware that some of the claimants have received less than they claimed, but as to that, I would refer my hon. Friend to the full explanation given to him in the letters sent by my hon. Friend the Parliamentary Secretary. The explosions are a regrettable necessity, and it is not possible to stop, or even to reduce, the defence work which gives rise to them.

Mr. Ridsdale

is my right hon. Friend aware that the simple request of the people in the Clacton area is that there should be no firing without fair compensation? I hope that he will see to it.

Mr. Maudling

That, in effect, is what we are doing.