§ 30. Mr. PERRYasked the Minister of Agriculture if he has received any complaints of damage to fisheries and to agriculturists engaged in the raising of stock by the pollution of the River Nene; and, if so, what action he proposes to take in the matter?
§ Mr. N. BUXTONI have not received from agriculturists engaged in the raising of stock any complaints of damage caused by the pollution of the River Nene. Complaints as to damage caused to fisheries by such pollution have been received, the latest laving been made in November last. Power to institute legal proceedings in respect of pollution is vested not in the Ministry but in sanitary authorities under the Rivers Pollution Prevention Acts and in Fishery Boards under the Salmon and Freshwater Fisheries Act, 1923. I understand that the Nene and Welland Fishery Board have instituted proceedings in respect of the pollution of the River Nene, and that the case is down for hearing on 8th April.
§ Mr. C. WILLIAMSIs not the pollution of rivers really a matter for the Minister of Health, and does the Minister of Health take action?
§ Mr. BUXTONSo far as local authorities are involved, yes.