§ MR. PICKERSGILL (Bethnal Green, S.W.)I beg to ask the President of the Local Government Board whether he is aware that the nuisance (to which his attention was drawn in June last) arising from noisome smoke issuing from the chimney of the "destructor" belonging to the Commissioners of Sewers of the City of London, situated at Lett's Wharf, still continues; that it was particularly offensive on the 15th instant; and that complaint has been made to the Lambeth Vestry by Mr. Shiel, Police Magistrate; and whether he will take further, and effectual, steps to abate the nuisance?
§ * MR. RITCHIEI am informed by the Commissioners of Sewers of the City of London that the inquiries which they have made lead to the conclusion that the noisome smoke nuisance complained of does not proceed from the chimney of the "destructor" belonging to them, which is situated at Lett's Wharf. The Vestry of Lambeth, within which parish is the wharf referred to, state that there appears to be little doubt that smoke issues from the chimney of the "destructor," which gives out a faint, sickly smell, but the Vestry have never been able to obtain from the Medical Officer of Health a statement that such smell is 1685 dangerous to health. In the absence of this evidence the Vestry have been unable to take any action, except to keep a watch on the wharf from time to time. Looking at these replies, I will direct one of the Inspectors of the Local Government Board to inquire and report to me on the subject.
MR. STAVELEY HILL (Staffordshire, Kingswinford)As the matter is one which is causing a good deal of feeling, will the right hon. Gentleman receive any Memorials upon it?
§ * MR. RITCHIECertainly, Sir. I am glad at any time to receive communications bearing on matters connected with my Department.