HC Deb 22 May 1928 vol 217 cc1692-3
72. Mr. HASLAM

asked the Minister of Health whether, in view of the fact that great difficulties will be experienced at no very distant date in providing an adequate water supply in England, he will consider the appointment of an expert committee to examine the question and to make suggestions with a view to conserving areas for future supplies?

Sir K. WOOD

There is no need for any general alarm as to water supplies, though difficulties occur from time to time at particular places, as they have clone in the past. The general position is constantly under review by my right hon. Friend, with the help of an advisory committee representative of the various interests. The most practical procedure in my right hon. Friend's opinion is the formation of regional water committees who will survey the needs of their districts and formulate long-term programmes, and he encourages the formation of such Committees. In the circumstances my right hon. Friend does not think that there is any necessity to appoint another committee as suggested by my hon. Friend.

Mr. HASLAM

Is my right hon. Friend aware that no less an authority than Lord Desborough, Chairman of the Thames Conservancy Board, is reported to have said that the supply of water was going to be very serious for England at no very distant period?

Mr. GEOFFREY PETO

In view of the difficulties of the situation, will the right hon. Gentleman endeavour to secure a reduction of the duty on beer?

Mr. T. WILLIAMS

Since small local authorities find it impossible to get water, except by purchase from a large private company or a huge municipal undertaking, will the right hon. Gentleman consider the advisability of insisting upon regional schemes in order to guarantee a reasonable supply of water for small local authorities?

Mr. E. BROWN

Will the right hon. Gentleman take good care to keep the excessive water away from Lords and the Oval?