asked the Minister of Agriculture if he will make a statement as to the present position of the work of restoring and strengthening the coastal defences along the East Coast of Great Britain.

The work of restoring the damaged sea defences on the East Coast is now virtually complete and substantial progress has been made in certain areas with major improvements. The defences are now as strong as, and in some places stronger than, they were before the floods of 1st February. This is a major achievement that reflects the greatest credit on the river boards and their staffs, the contracting firms and all others concerned. I am glad to take this opportunity of paying tribute to the good work they have done.