§ 1. Sir GEORGE PENNYasked the Lord Privy Seal whether he will consider the desirability of approaching local authorities in areas likely to suffer from water shortage in the event of drought to suggest schemes for the provision of catchment areas and reservoirs, which besides proving of great utility would provide work for the unemployed?
§ The LORD PRIVY SEAL (Mr. J. H. Thomas)My right hon. Friend the Minister of Health has recently drawn the attention of local authorities to the necessity for initiating schemes for new water supplies in advance of requirements and has emphasised the advantages of regional water committees, Approved schemes of the character indicated would be subject to the appropriate Unemployment Grant.
§ Sir G. PENNYIn view of the Lord Privy Seal's statement yesterday, that it was only that day that it had occurred to him that this question might open up a useful source of employment, might I ask the Government whether they will consider the advisability of those responsible for unemployment studying more closely the Order Paper, so that they can see the proposals that are made?
§ Mr. THOMASAll I can say is that the Ministry of Health, whose business it is to consider the water supply, had already taken steps to deal with the matter. I was concerned purely from the employment point of view, and I do not think that very much delay was occasioned by my action.