§ 9. Mr. Dormandasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what action he now proposes to take in cleaning the Durham beaches; and if he will make a statement.
§ The Under-Secretary of State for the Environment (Mr. Giles Shaw)The working party which has looked into ways of clearing up the beaches recommended a pipeline system to convey the waste out to sea. While the system is technically acceptable, it would cost over £23 million to construct at 1979 prices, and it is the Government's view that such expenditure of public funds could not be justified at the present time.
§ Mr. DormandIs the Minister aware that the National Coal Board nationally and the North-East board have made the most strenuous efforts in this matter, and that Government policies have prevented Easington district council and Durham county council from making contributions which they very much wanted to make? Is he further aware that the National Coal Board, again because of Government policies, is now unable to complete its plans?
Will the Minister agree that there is a moral obligation on the part of the nation, because of the North-East's industrial past, fully to finance the remainder of the board's plans? The Minister mentioned a figure of £23 million. It is the first time that I have heard that figure. If he thinks that I am exaggerating, may I invite him to come to Durham and visit the beaches with me?
§ Mr. ShawI am aware of the various facets of the considerable problem that the hon. Gentleman has raised. As he will know, the National Coal Board has undertaken to deal with the pipeline on the landward side but not on the sea side. Although I am aware that local authorities may have been considering offers, none has so far been forthcoming. I accept the hon. Gentleman's point and I shall wish to see him about considering a visit to the area.