§ 26. Mr. Altonasked the Secretary of State for Energy what consideration he has given to tidal barrage projects, especially on the river Mersey.
§ Mr. David HuntMy Department is supporting a jointly funded study by the Severn tidal power group to assess the feasibility of a Severn barrage built and operated by the private sector.
As far as Merseyside is concerned, a pre-feasibility study on a Mersey barrage has now been carried out. It is now proposed to extend this to refine cost and engineering estimates. My Department has been approached for financial support and I have agreed in principle to make a contribution towards funding a £40,000 study.