HC Deb 07 February 1983 vol 36 c247W
Mr. Allen McKay

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will make it his policy to publish the results of all cost-benefit studies made of large-scale drainage works schemes which have implications for wetland flora, fauna and wildlife before public moneys are investigated.

Mrs. Fenner

Cost-benefit studies for drainage schemes are designed to demonstrate whether a proposed scheme is viable in economic terms. Benefits and disbenefits that cannot be quantified for the purpose of these studies are taken into account by Ministers before they reach decisions on individual schemes. The studies for agricultural schemes are compiled from confidential information obtained from individuals which it would not be proper to release.