§ Mr. David PorterTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will make a statement on the prospects for sea defence, coast protection and land drainage schemes in Suffolk and Norfolk in 1993–94 in the light of the autumn statement.
§ Mr. CurryPrevious plans for coast protection and the National Rivers Authority's flood defence works in England have been maintained, indicating the Government's continuing commitment to reduce risks to life and to the environment. Minor reductions have been made to bring plans for local authority and internal drainage board flood defence more closely in line with actual spending in recent years.
An allocation for capital works of £7.0 million is being made to the National Rivers Authority for Norfolk and Suffolk. The basic rate of grant remains at 55 per cent., with a 20 per cent. supplement for tidal and sea defence work.
Provision is also available for grants to local authorities, internal drainage boards and maritime district councils in England for flood and coastal defence works. Schemes proposed by such authorities in Norfolk and Suffolk will be considered for approval and grant aid by the Department in the normal way.