§ Sir G. Owenasked the Minister of Health whether he will recommend that expenditure incurred by local authorities in connection with sea-defence works shall be made eligible for financial assistance from national funds.
§ Mr. WillinkSuggestions for a general system of grants in aid of the expense of sea defence works have been made from time to time and the whole subject was reviewed by a Royal Commission, which reported in 1911 and which was not in favour of such a proposal. My hon. and gallant Friend will be aware of the Exchequer assistance which is available in respect of such works when undertaken by drainage authorities, but I should not feel justified in recommending special grants to local authorities who may undertake this work for the protection of their own property.