§ 24. Sir C. Mott-Radclyffeasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs what arrangements have been made by his Department, in conjunction with the local authorities concerned, for dealing with such emergencies as might arise as a result of exceptional flooding in the Thames Valley.
§ Sir K. JosephIt is impossible to be precise in advance about the degree of flooding, if it should occur. In these circumstances it is not feasible to give any useful advice to local authorities. Authorities have a great deal of experience of handling emergencies as they arise, and my Department is ready to go to their assistance as soon as any help is needed.
§ Sir C. Mott-RadclyffeWould my right hon. Friend not agree that a certain amount of forethought and co-ordination is necessary and desirable if certain events of the 1947 flood are not to be repeated?
§ Sir K. JosephYes, Sir. Local officials have been in touch with my Department about this and they have been told how such assistance can be obtained in emergency.