§ Mr. Barry FieldTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport (1) whether any environmental ecological or tidal impact studies have been carried out by his Department for the hydro-electric barrier proposed for the western Solent between Hurst Castle and Fort Victoria; and whether any consultation has taken place between his Department and the Royal Yachting Association, the Solent Protection Society and the Commercial Fishermen's Association;
(2) Whether any public expenditure is planned for the proposed tidal barrage between Hurst Castle and Fort Victoria.
§ Mr. McLoughlinNo approach has been made to my Department about this proposed scheme, for which my right hon. Friend's consent would be needed. His concern is with safety of navigation and the right of innocent passage through the Solent. I am not aware of any plans for public expenditure on the scheme.