49. Mr. W. M. ADAMSONasked the Minister of Agriculture whether he can now report on the investigation he instituted into the causes of pollution of the River Penk and its tributaries; and if he is now in a position to recommend measures for dealing with the matter?
§ The MINISTER of AGRICULTURE (Mr. Guinness)The investigation which I instituted was concerned solely with the question whether cattle had suffered through drinking water from the River Penk. The report I obtained is inconclusive on this point. With regard to the wider question of the causes of pollution of the River Penk, I would refer the hon. Member to my right hon. Friend the Minister of Health.
§ Mr. LAMBIs the right hon. Gentleman not aware that fish were killed in the river 19 miles away from where Lhis pollution arose?
§ Mr. GUINNESSYes, and I understand the Corporation of Wolverhampton have undertaken to pay compensation for damage to fishery interests.
§ Mr. LAMBDoes the right hon. Gentleman realise how difficult it is adequately to arrive at a true compensation for damage done to stock which has not actually caused death?
§ Mr. GUINNESSThe whole of the pollution is most unfortunate, but there is going to be another hearing by the official of the Ministry of Health. If hon. Members want further information, they had better put down questions to that Department.