§ Mr. ChannonTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will make it his practice to refuse any more dredging orders off the Essex coast where there is evidence of potential damage to fish.
§ Mr. Heseltine[holding answer 17 June 1991]: The decision to grant a licence for the extraction of marine sand and gravel rests with the Crown Estate after consultation with those whose interests may be affected by the proposed dredging. My Department is responsible for co-ordinating these consultations and formulating the Government view. Each proposal is considered on its merits and I carefully examine all potential environmental impacts including fisheries before deciding whether or not to grant a favourable Government view. On the basis of a favourable Government view the Crown Estate will decide whether to issue a licence to dredge and will lay down appropriate conditions to protect marine and coastal interests.