HC Deb 07 August 1913 vol 56 cc1737-8
35. Mr. KEIR HARDIE

asked the President of the Local Government Board whether he has now received a Report anent the water supply to the tenants of the Carnetown Cottage Company, Abercynon, numbering all told about 1,000 persons; and what action he proposes taking to secure that the springs from which the supply is obtained, the filter beds, and the channels along which the water is conveyed to the reservoir, are cleaned and protected against pollution by decayed vegetable matter and animal excrement?

Mr. BURNS

I have received a report upon this matter from which it appears that the company now supply 148 houses with a population of 855. The Report states that the company are taking steps to cover in the springs and inlets to tanks, and to secure their gathering ground from risk of pollution.

Mr. KEIR HARDIE

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that during the past fortnight this company has been able to give water in the area for at most two hours a day, and on some days not at all?

Mr. BURNS

I am aware of the difficulties under which this locality labours, and I am in communication with the medical officer of health upon the matter. I will see that one of my inspectors is in close touch with the medical officer, with a view to causing both the company and the local authority to do their duty to the district in this particular matter.