§ 72. Mr. N. Nicolsonasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government on what basis he assesses the capacity of a local authority to contribute towards the cost of its coast-protection works.
§ Mr. H. BrookeEach application for Exchequer grant is considered individually, having regard to the cost of the scheme and the financial resources of the local authority concerned.
§ 73. Mr. N. Nicolsonasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government whether temporary coast-protection works, designed to save a stretch of cliff from collapse until permanent works can be undertaken, will qualify for Exchequer grants to the same degree as the permanent works.
§ Mr. BrookeThis would depend on the circumstances. Exchequer contributions are not normally given to help temporary works, but where these can be incorporated later in a more pemanent scheme I would certainly consider an application for grant.
§ 74. Mr. N. Nicolsonasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government on what principles he defines the area which benefits from a coast-protection scheme, and so becomes liable to contribute towards its cost.
§ Mr. H. BrookeIt is in the first instance for the coast protection authority to define the land which is likely to benefit from the coast protection scheme, and in respect of which contributions may therefore be payable. Local circumstances vary so much that it has not been possible to lay down any general principles for the guidance of coast protect ion authorities.