Written question asked by Norman Lamb (Liberal Democrat) on Wednesday, 22 October 2003, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 30 October 2003. It was answered by Keith Hill (Labour) on Thursday, 30 October 2003 on behalf of the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister.

Office of the Deputy Prime Minister

Question: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister, if he will make a statement on the impact of offshore dredging on coastal erosion.

Answer: Norman Lamb: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister if he will make a statement on the impact of offshore dredging on coastal erosion. [134761] Keith Hill: There is no evidence that licensed marine minerals dredging has an impact on the rate of coastal erosion but, as a precaution, each environmental statement that accompanies an application to dredge must include a coastal impact assessment. This is subjected to close scrutiny to ensure that the results are satisfactory before a licence can be given. Most licences are subject to monitoring conditions and no licence has been terminated because of adverse impacts on the coast.

Secondary information