HC Deb 10 March 1971 vol 813 cc413-4
Mr. Speaker

Question 53. It would help me if the Minister would ascertain whether the hon. Member asking the Question has risen to ask it.

Mr. Graham Page

With respect, Mr. Speaker, it is difficult to have eyes in the back of one's head.

53. Mr. Farr

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will authorise a feasibility study of the proposals of the Water Resources Board to build reservoirs in the Wash, as an alternative to a possible Wash Barrage Scheme.

107. Sir G. de Freitas

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment when he expects to be able to announce his conclusion on the recommendations of the Water Resources Board Desk Study entitled "The Wash Estuary Storage", in view of the possible shortage of water in the East Midlands and East Anglia.

Mr. Graham Page

My right hon. Friend has not yet completed the consideration of the board's report and consultations which must precede an announcement. He appreciates the need for an early decision and expects to be able to announce conclusions shortly.

Mr. Farr

Since the proposals for a feasibility study of the Wash barrage scheme have been on the Minister's desk for over a year and there is a prospect of a shortage of fresh water in the next decade, will my hon. Friend expedite a decision in this important matter?

Mr. Page

My right hon. Friend appreciates the urgency of this matter and hopes shortly to make a statement.

Sir G. tie Freitas

This is a most serious matter for all concerned in East Anglia and the East Midlands. Questions are asked on it week after week and month after month. Will the Minister press on with this matter?

Mr. Page

We realise the urgency of this, particularly for East Anglia. As I say, my right hon. Friend will make a statement shortly.