THE MAPLIN DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY (Hansard, 13 June 1973)

Mr. Brian Harrison

I beg to move Amendment No. 20, in page 15, line 9, after 'matters', insert: 'or of safeguarding the interests of the environment'. My hon. Friend the Under-Secretary of State has throughout the debate referred 1642 to this as an environmental airport. While he and I may have differences of opinion, I know that he has an interest in preserving certain of the unique attributes of the environment in this area.

During the recess I had the opportunity to visit Foulness Island and to walk out on the Maplin sands. It is important that the membership of the Maplin Development Authority should include a person who is an authority on the environment and who can safeguard the interests of the environment.

I press my hon. Friend strongly to accept this slightly wider category of membership so that if we have to have an airport at Maplin the minimum amount of damage is done and the environment is preserved.

§ Mr. Eldon Griffiths

I agree entirely with my hon. Friend. It is essential that someone on the Maplin Development Authority Board should be able to speak with knowledge and sensitivity on matters relating to the environment and amenity, the wild life, the flora and fauna, and the rest. I am very glad, therefore, that my hon. Friend has moved this amendment which, in effect, provides that in the list of qualities to which my right hon. and learned Friend the Secretary of State should have regard in appointing members of the MDAB he should have special regard to the desirability of securing the services of persons with knowledge and experience of safeguarding the interests of the environment. I am sure that that is right.

I hope that my hon. Friend will be glad to hear that the Government accept his amendment as it stands.