HC Deb 25 May 1973 vol 857 cc176-7W
Mr. Skeet

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what size of vessel will be accommodated at the projected port at Maplin by 1980; and what additional tonnage he expects will be included at a later date through dredging.

Mr. Peyton

I understand the Port of London Authority is considering proposals for tankers up to 350,000 tons dwt initially, and 500,000 tons dwt eventually.

Mr. Moate

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what is the precise nature, extent and cost of dredging, reclamation and other work already being carried out on the Maplin Sands, apart from the removal of explosives and shells; and what is the statutory provision for such work and such expenditure.

Mr. Eldon Griffiths

Work which has been or is being carried out on the Maplin Sands consists of geophysical investigations, hydrographic and site surveys, and the construction of a survey tower and of a trial protective bank. This work will cost about £600,000. The statutory provisions are the Acts establishing the functions of the Secretary of State, and the Appropriation Acts.