asked the Minister of Land and Natural Resources in how many parts of this country dredged silt and sand is used for land reclamation; and approximately what percentage this represents of the total amount dredged from English and Welsh ports and not used.

This information is not at present available and it is therefore not possible to make any estimate. I am now examining what action should be taken to enlarge the supply of information centrally available on such matters.

Surely the right hon. Gentleman should have this percentage or know the figures by now? Is he aware that the Yugoslavs, on the outskirts of Calcutta, are reclaiming land at the rate of about 1½ acres a day? Is he further aware that Hong Kong is reclaiming land from the sea to create fresh water reservoirs? In view of this, will he co-operate with local authorities to see if something like that cannot be established on our north-west coast?

Mr. Wiley:

I was not aware of the good work the Yugoslavs are doing. However, I am aware how important these matters are to areas such as South Mersey. I appreciate the hon. Gentleman's interest in the subject.

Is the right hon. Gentleman now saying that he has responsibility for land reclamation; if so, why did he transfer a Question of mine on the subject to his right hon. Friend the Minister of Housing and Local Government?

I have answered the Question on the Order Paper about reclamation in so far as it affects land use and makes resources available. This is my responsibility.

Would the Minister investigate the possibility of further land reclamation schemes in, for example, the Dee Estuary?

Yes. When I referred to South Mersey I also had the Dee Estuary in mind. I appreciate that that is a part of the country where reclamation with silt and gravel might be effected.