HC Deb 20 December 1972 vol 848 cc1327-8
37. Rear-Admiral Morgan-Giles

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what facilities he has available to control and supervise the activities of dredgers dredging for gravel from the sea bed.

Mr. Channon

None, Sir. Licences granted by the Crown Estates Commissioners for dredging gravel from the sea bed define the areas to be dredged and impose limits on quantities to be removed.

Rear-Admiral Morgan-Giles

Is the hon. Gentleman aware of the concern felt by the Solent Protection Society and others about what may be the long-term effects if dredging is carried on outside the areas and limits properly allocated?

Mr. Channon

I note what my hon. and gallant Friend has said. I have heard of a number of complaints. This is pri- marily a matter for my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, and I shall draw his attention to my hon. and gallant Friend's comments.