§ Mr. Teddy Taylorasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will make the resources of his Department's advice and expertise available to the Southend borough council in its attempt to secure the speedy repair of Southend pier following the damage sustained on 30 June; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. TraceyMy right hon. Friend is very concerned about the damage caused to Southend pier, which is a grade II listed structure. Advice and expertise on listed buildings and structures is now the responsibility of the Historic Buildings and Monuments Commission, who acts as the Secretary of State's adviser in these matters. The advice of the commission's staff is available should the Southend-on-Sea borough council need it.