HC Deb 22 March 1972 vol 833 cc1494-5
28. Mr. Spearing

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if his reply to the letter from the Inland Waterways Association, South-East England Branch, dated 25th January, was not sent until 29th February; why the invitation for a representative of his Department to attend a meeting of the branch on 3rd March was refused; and what steps he now proposes in order that he may hear the views of those who use the waterways for recreation.

Mr. Eldon Griffiths

The earliest date on which a firm reply could be sent was 29th February. It is not practicable for the Department to be represented at the many branch meetings of voluntary bodies, but I welcome the views of the Inland Waterways Association on this subject. In addition, I held a national conference on 28th February to explain and hear views on the Government's proposals.

Mr. Spearing

Does the hon. Gentleman agree that the four-week delay and the refusal to send an observer to this conference ran completely counter to the Government's policy of providing more recreation on the waterways? Is he aware that a statutory body specifically concerned with navigation is the only way to safeguard navigational interests in the proposed reorganisation?

Mr. Griffiths

I am sure that the new arrangements will safeguard, wherever appropriate, navigational interest on the waterways. It is not physically possible for my Department to be represented at the branch meetings of every voluntary organisation, much as we would like to do so.

Mr. Adley

Is my hon. Friend aware that many members of the Inland Waterways Association who were initially alarmed at the proposals have now, thanks to the efforts of my hon. Friend, come to realise that the Government's proposals will have positive benefits for navigation and other forms of recreation on our inland waterways?

Mr. Griffiths

I think that is right.