HC Deb 22 November 1927 vol 210 cc1585-6
28. Mr. WESTWOOD

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will ask for a Report from the sanitary inspector of the Gorebridge district of Midlothian as to the sanitary conditions associated with the houses in Castle and Office Rows and other houses leased or owned by the Arniston Coal Company with a view to having better sanitary arrangements given effect to in this district?

Sir J. GILMOUR

The Scottish Board of Health have received reports on the sanitary condition of the houses leased or owned by the Arniston Coal Company in the Gala Water district and in the Lass-wade district of Midlothian. An opportunity has not yet occurred for these reports to be considered by the district committees concerned, by whom, as public health local authorities, any action with a view to improvement will fall to be taken, but the Board will keep in touch with the whole matter.

Mr. WESTWOOD

While these reports are being considered, will the right hon. Gentleman give instructions that at least the ash-pits shall be cleaned out twice during the week in that district, in the interests of the health of the community? May I press for an answer, as I have put these questions several times, and the situation in that area is disgraceful?

Sir J. GILMOUR

As the matter has not yet been considered by the local authorities, who are responsible, and the Board are keeping in close touch with the matter, I cannot say more.

Mr. WESTW00D

May I ask the right hon. Gentleman if, pending the consideration of these reports, he will see that elementary sanitary conditions are applied in that district?

Sir J. GILMOUR

The Board have instructions, as I have informed the hon. Member, to keep in close touch with this question. I will draw their attention to what the hon. Member has said.

Mr. BUCHANAN

Cannot the right hon. Gentleman take steps to get the matter brought forward and the position expedited?

Sir J. GILMOUR

I am satisfied that there is no delay in considering it.