§ Mr. Molloyasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will use his power of direction under Section 138(2) of the Local Government Act 1972 to compel the Greater London Council, as the responsible river authority, to make grants to those in the London borough of Ealing who suffered damage to a considerable extent during the recent flood- 808W ing, as outlined to him in correspondence by the hon. Member for Ealing, North.
§ Mr. Denis HowellThe power of direction under Section 138(2) of the Local Government Act 1972 does not extend to compelling local authorities to make compensatory payments following emergencies or disaster. Under Section 138 local authorities have discretion to spend money or grant loans in connection with emergencies or disasters affecting their area. My right hon. Friend has to be notified of the action taken and may then give directions to the authority limiting the help or bring it to an end.