Lord HAWKEasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether they are aware that there is grave anxiety, particularly among people living in the lower parts of London, at the possibility of the Thames overflowing its banks this winter; whether they will do what they can to allay such anxiety and state when they expect the Thames Barrage to be completed; and meanwhile, to state what measures are being taken to strengthen the existing walls and barriers.
§ Lord STRABOLGIThe Government fully understand the concern of people in flood risk areas both in London and elsewhere along the tidal reaches of the Thames. Existing flood defences in Central London were improved as an interim measure in 1971–72 and have proved adequate even in the face of the exceptional surge tide of 11th/12th January this year. The longer term solution will be the completion of the Thames Barrier and associated tidal defences. Under the present programme the Barrier is due for completion in late 1983, but the Greater London Council, which is responsible for its construction, has under consideration a proposal to advance this date to mid-1982.
House adjourned at twenty-three minutes past seven o'clock.