§ Mr. Ian BruceTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what work the interdepartmental group on coastal policy has done on the ownership of sea walls; and what plans his Department has to transfer ownership of the Portland harbour wall.
§ Mr. Jack[holding answer 20 July 1993]: I have been asked to reply as this Department has overall policy responsibility for coastal defences in England. The ownership of specific lengths of sea wall is a matter for local bodies concerned. In the case of Portland I understand that the Ministry of Defence is reviewing options for the future of the entire base—including the breakwaters—in conjunction with Weymouth and Portland borough council and other interested parties.