§ Mr. John Leeasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will institute measures to ensure more effective flood prevention in the Thames Valley.
§ Mr. John MackieRiver management and control in the Thames Valley is the responsibility of the Thames Conservancy Catchment Board. Any reduction in the frequency of flooding demands an increase in the channel capacity. A great deal has already been achieved, but 1 am advised that for technical and economic reasons there is limited scope for further channel improvement.
The Department is, however, currently discussing with the Conservancy the possibility of further improving land drainage in the area to make possible more profitable use of agricultural land.