HC Deb 28 March 1961 vol 637 cc1104-5
7. Mr. Oram

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs whether he is aware of the widespread flooding in riverside areas of London and the Home Counties on the night of 20th–21st March, 1961; and whether, in view of this further warning of the precarious position of these areas, he will expedite his consideration of the Thames flood barrier or some equivalent protective construction.

Mr. Brooke

In answer to the first part of the Question: yes, Sir. In answer to the second, I am trying to hasten a decision on the barrier scheme. The position at the moment is that the Port of London Authority is anxious about the effects of such a scheme on navigation, and other authorities have other reservations. I have arranged for an early discussion between representatives of the principal authorities and the consulting engineers to see how their questions can be resolved and a decision reached.

Mr. Oram

Can the Minister confirm the reports that the circumstances on this particular night were very similar to the circumstances in 1953, namely, the coincidence of high wind and high tide? Can he assure the House that this matter is being dealt with with the urgency it demands in view of the fact that it is seven years since the first tragic warning and now we have to wait for another one? This seems to require very urgent effort indeed.

Mr. Brooke

There was an exceptionally high tide on that night a week ago, and it was increased beyond the expected level by a north-westerly gale in the North Sea. The position about the barrier plan is, as I have told the House, that I have asked all the public authorities concerned to consider it and express their views on it. It is important that the Government should pay attention to those views. I am trying to arrange that those views, as far as possible, shall be reconciled. Then I shall be able with my colleagues to reach a decision on the matter.

Mr. M. Stewart

Will the Minister think in terms of a timetable and consider fixing some date by which firm decisions ought to be reached and construction begun?

Mr. Brooke

There is to be a further meeting about this in a fortnight's time, but the Port of London Authority is a very important body and the Port of London is very important from the standpoint of navigation. I cannot sweep aside the difficulties which the P.L.A. sees.