§ 63. Sir B. PETOasked the Minister of Agriculture what is the policy of the Board of Agriculture with regard to the pollution of rivers by factory effluents; and whether the opposition to such pollution by the Board applies only to rivers with valuable salmon fishing rights, such as the Wye, or is extended to smaller rivers which contain only coarse fish, such as the Witham?
§ Mr. GUINNESSThe policy of the Ministry is by such means as are open to it, and with a due sense of proportion, to assist without distinction those who are endeavouring to prevent or mitigate the pollution of streams. I must, however, point out to my hon. Friend that the responsibility for the enforcement of the law against the pollution of rivers is laid upon local sanitary authorities and 365 fishery boards, and that the Ministry is not armed with any powers in this regard.