§ SIR JOHN ROLLESTON (Leicester)To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether his attention has been called to explosions of septic tanks at Exeter during the experimental stages, at Walton-on-Naze in December last, and at Sheringham in Norfolk on the 1st May last, the last of which caused the death of three people and injuries to several others; and, if so, whether in view of the number of septic tanks which have lately been erected throughout the country, he will consider the advisability of making these tanks subject to a special licence.
1053 (Answered by Mr. Walter Long.) My right hon. friend has asked me to answer this Question. I am aware of the unfortunate explosion at Sheringham, and I have received some information as to the other two cases referred to. The Royal Commission on Sewage Disposal are at present investigating the various methods and appliances for the disposal of sewage, including septic tanks; and I understand they have caused special inquiry to be made into the circumstances of the accident at Sheringham. Legislation would be necessary to give effect to the suggestion contained in the Question, but it would seem to be desirable to await the Report of the Commission before determining whether any legislation should be undertaken on the subject.