§ Lord Melchettasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether they are aware that the Manor House pump is no longer included in the Lower Bure, Halvergate Fleet and Acle Marshes Internal Drainage Board's (IDB) scheme for the drainage of Halvergate marshes, and whether they can now guarantee that there will be an adequate supply of fresh water for stock on land south of the railway line on the Severn Mile/Berney level, and how this fresh water will be provided.
Earl FerrersI can confirm that the Lower Bure, Halvergate Fleet and Acle Marshes Internal Drainage Board have withdrawn their application for grant aid for the Manor House scheme. The provision of a fresh water supply to farms is not a statutory obligation for internal drainage boards. I understand, however, that the drainage board has promised to do its best to maintain a supply to farms in the Seven Mile/Berney level, and that the board is considering, in conjunction with the Broads Authority, how this might be achieved.
House adjourned at fifteen minutes past ten o'clock.