To ask the Secretary of State for National Heritage what priority is given by her Department to the maintenance and development of piers in seaside areas; and if she will make a statement. [35912]

Seaside resorts play a significant role in the tourism market—accounting for nearly 50 per cent. of domestic tourist spend on all holidays in this country—and piers are an important feature of the traditional seaside resort. My Department has listed some 29 piers in England, including Southend pier in my hon. Friend's constituency.