HC Deb 15 November 1917 vol 99 c551
19. Mr. CRUMLEY

asked the Chief Secretary if he can see his way to introduce a short Bill to amend the Lough Erne Act, providing for the prevention of the annual flooding of thousands of acres of land, the consequent saving of crops, and increase in food supplies?

Mr. DUKE

I am advised that this is a matter for a private Bill.

Mr. CRUMLEY

Will the right hon. and learned Gentleman bring in a Bill, to which there is no opposition, to safeguard those crops?

Mr. DUKE

I am advised that this is a matter for a private Bill, but I will consider my hon. Friend's suggestion.

Mr. CRUMLEY

Thank you very much.

25. Mr. O'DOWD

asked the Chief Secretary whether he is aware that, owing to the continuous rains of the past three months and partly owing to the stoppage of the drainage work commenced some time ago on the Owenmore River, in the county Sligo, hundreds of acres of valuable oat, potatoes, and hay crops have been destroyed by the flooding of that river; and, if so, will he say whether the work of drainage on the Owenmore will be resumed, so as to prevent a recurrence of these disasters during the coming year?

Mr. DUKE

I would refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave to his previous question on the 21st June, to which I have nothing to add.