§ [The Question was as follows:
§ To ask Her Majesty's Government when they propose to come to a decision as to the alternative means of flood prevention on the River Thames in the tidal area.]
75§ THE PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY, MINISTRY OF HOUSING AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT (LORD KENNET)My Lords, as my right honourable friend the Minister of Housing and Local Government said in answer to a question in the House of Commons on February 20, 1968, the Greater London Council have undertaken to investigate, in consultation with the Port of London Authority and the navigation interests, the relative advantages of a movable barrier and a fixed barrage. and the most suitable site. The investigation is likely to be complete by the end of this year, and my right honourable friend will then consider the Council's recommendations and consult with them upon the next step.
LORD TEYNHAMMy Lords, while thanking the Minister for his reply, may I ask whether he is aware of the failure of Her Majesty's Government and the Greater London Council to come quickly to a decision in this matter? It is holding up important developments and work in the Thames area.
§ LORD KENNETMy Lords, if the noble Lord will specify which developments, I will willingly see whether anything can be done about them before the decision is reached.