HC Deb 18 April 1991 vol 189 cc236-7W
Mr. Win Griffiths

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what action he proposes to take following the representations he has received on the problems of pollution and flooding along the River Severn.

Mr. Curry

Flood and tidal defences along the River Severn are kept under constant review by the National Rivers Authority and the Department. As a result of flooding from the River Severn, the Severn Trent region of the NRA which is responsible for the promotion of flood defence work along the river, has instigated investigations in the form of mathematical and physical modelling, and have included defence works in their forward programme of work to be submitted to the Department for grant aid.

The Ministry is grant-aiding a comprehensive scheme to raise flood walls and embankments on the River Severn, below Gloucester. Following the tidal flooding in February 1990, and additional section of works is being added.

Matters relating to the problems of pollution along the River Severn are the responsibility of my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for the Environment.