§ 68. Mr. DAYasked the Minister of Health whether, in view of the water shortage which took place last summer, he can state whether any comprehensive local investigations by advisory regional committees are taking place on the lines indicated by his Department; and whether it is proposed to consider the results of these investigations so that a national policy can be co-ordinated; and can he give the House any particulars?
§ Mr. GREENWOODUp to the present four advisory regional committees have been set up. They are South-West Lancashire (22 authorities), Sherwood area of Nottinghamshire (24 authorities) Isle of Wight (10 authorities), and Holland (Lincolnshire) (12 authorities). The committees are undertaking comprehensive investigations into the water re sources of their regions. I am urging the setting up of further regional committees, and I propose, when a series of regional investigations have been undertaken and reports issued, to consider the results with a view to co-ordination and the formulation of a national policy.
§ Mr. DAYHas the right hon. Gentleman received any reports from the Water Committees which have already been set up?
§ Mr. GREENWOODYes, we are in continual touch with them.
§ Mr. SMITHERSWill the right hon. Gentleman consider the possibility of suggesting to these people who make inquiries that they should take into consideration not only the shortage of water as affecting human beings, but also the agricultural wants in outlying districts which this year have caused very great disaster and inconvenience in many cases?
§ Mr. GREENWOODCertainly.