§ 64. Mr. Spearingasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if with reference to his Department's Press release of 22nd December about the Thames Barrier, he will publish in full the recommendations of the Greater London Council and place in the Library an engineering appraisal of the problems involved and the reasons for selecting various features of the design chosen for comparison; whether the type chosen can be closed without power; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Peter WalkerAs I said in answer to my hon. Friend the Member for South Angus (Mr. Bruce-Gardyne) on 4th November last, the Greater London Council has been asked to press ahead with the completion of its remaining studies. When I have received its second report I shall, with its agreement, place copies in the Library. That report will include an engineering appraisal of the problems involved and the reasons for preferring a rising sector gate. It is envisaged that the barrier will normally be power-operated but capable of being closed without power.—[Vol. 805, c. 351–2.]