HC Deb 19 May 1909 vol 5 cc406-7
Mr. WEIR

asked whether the Secretary for Scotland is aware that in the Report of the medical officer of health for Ross and Cromarty just issued attention is again called to the fact that the infectious diseases hospital at Stornoway is in urgent need of a water supply; and, in view of the danger to which patients are thus exposed, will the Local Government Board take such steps as may be necessary to ensure an adequate water supply being provided without further delay?

Mr. URE

I am aware of the statement referred to, but I can only refer my hon. Friend to my answer of the 9th March, 1909, to the effect that in the present financial condition of the Lews District Committee there is no immediate prospect of making this improvement.

Mr. WEIR

Am I to understand that the Secretary for Scotland and the Local Government Board for Scotland are so utterly indifferent that they intend to discard the Public Health Act?

Mr. URE

The Secretary for Scotland is not discarding the Public Health Act. The Local Government Board have no power.

Mr. WEIR

Am I to understand that the Local Government Board has no power whatever to enforce the Public Health Act?