HC Deb 21 June 1922 vol 155 cc1302-3
65. Mr. BRIGGS

asked the Minister of Agriculture if he is aware that, as a consequence of the discharge of a tar-like effluent from the gasworks situate above Holme Bridge, Bakewell, Derbyshire, a large number of fish in the River Wye have been killed; and will he use his powers to prevent any recurrence of such discharge of poisonous effluent from this or any other source along the banks of the Wye?

Major BARNSTON (for Sir A. Boscawen)

I have been asked to reply. My right hon. Friend is aware of the occurrence referred to, and understands that legal proceedings are pending. He has no powers to prevent the pollution of rivers, but it is hoped that by means of the Salmon and Freshwater Fisheries Bill, now under consideration in another place, more adequate powers may be conferred upon Boards of Conservators for preventing the pollution of rivers in their districts.