§ 74. Mr. Parkerasked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he has yet given his views on the National Waterways Board's programme on urgent works submitted by it on 2nd February 1978.
§ Mr. Denis HowellThe programme of works submitted to me by the British Waterways Board poses no problems as such as there is nothing to prevent it starting work. However, the British Waterways Board has submitted parallel proposals for substantial increases in staff numbers and salary levels which raise very difficult associated issues. Because of their implications for pay policy and for future levels of financing, I have not so far been able to give the Board clearance in respect of these matters.