HC Deb 06 November 1893 vol 18 cc213-4
MR. H. L. W. LAWSON (Gloucester, Cirencester)

I beg to ask the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that the Royal Commission on the Metropolitan Water Supply have unanimously recommended that the powers and obligations of tins Thames Conservancy Board shall be increased, in order to prevent the pollution of the river above the intake of the Water Companies; and whether he is aware that the Board has no revenue at present to utilise for this purpose, and no power of raising it; and, if so, whether he will consent to the appointment of a. Select Committee to inquire into the position and power of the Board with a view to legislation next Session?

* SIR F. DIXON-HARTLAND (Middlesex, Uxbridge)

Before the right hon. Gentleman answers that question, may I ask him whether he is not aware that in the last Session of Parliament, upon the London County Council (General Powers) Bill, an agreement was come to whereby certain members were added to the Thames Conservancy Board; that the Conservancy were pledged to introduce a Bill in the next Session of Parliament to alter the constitution of the Board? Is the right hon. Gentleman also aware that the necessary notices have been drawn up and handed in for publication on the proper day, and would it not be premature to appoint a Select Committee until the Bill of the Conservators is before the House?

THE PRESIDENT OF THE BOARD OF TRADE (Mr. MUNDELLA,) Sheffield, Brightside

I believe the facts are as stated by the hon. Baronet opposite. Do I understand him to say that notice will be given?

SIR F. DIXON-HARTLAND

It will be.

MR. MUNDELLA

I have only to say, in reply to the question, that unless Parliamentary notices are given this week no such legislation as is contemplated in the question can be introduced next Session. The question, however, of the constitution and powers of the Thames Conservancy Board is, as the hon. Member is aware, at present receiving careful consideration, with a view to early legislation thereon.

SIR F. DIXON-HARTLAND

Then no Select Committee will be granted?

MR. MUNDELLA

was understood to reply in the negative.