§ MR. LAWSON (St. Pancras, W.)asked the President of the Local Government Board, Whether his attention has been called to the condition of the Re- 1795 gent's Canal Basin; if he is aware that it is covered with slime; that many dead animals have been taken out of it; and that it emits a bad smell most obnoxious to the neighbourhood; and, whether he will inquire into the possibility of improving its present state?
§ THE PRESIDENT (Mr. RITCHIE) (Tower Hamlets, St. George's)Prior to the Notice of this Question, ray attention had not been called to the condition of the Regent's Canal Basin. I have obtained a Report from the Medical Officer of Health of St. Pancras on the subject. It appears, as to slime, that when the wind blows from the northerly points anything upon the surface of the arm of the Canal leading to the basin is blown down into the basin and collects at the extreme southern end. With regard to dead animals, the Medical Officer of Health states that the basin and the Canal itself are the receptacles for most of the dead animals of the neighbourhood. The Company clear them away twice a-week. Occasionally there has been delay; but, as a rule, the duty is fairly well done. With regard to the bad smell, I am informed that there have been complaints from a resident on the bank of the arm leading to the basin; but the Medical Officer of Health has not been able to verify any nuisance, probably from its fitful occurrence. I have no doubt that the condition of the basin is unsatisfactory. The Medical Officer of Health has made certain suggestions with regard to the more frequent dredging of the basin and other matters; and I am informed that the Vestry are in communication with the Canal Company on the subject. Some time since the Chief Sanitary Inspector received instructions to have the Canal constantly watched, with a view to taking proceedings, if necessary.