HC Deb 24 July 1930 vol 241 cc2387-8
36. Mr. DAY

asked the Minister of Health whether his attention has been drawn to the emission of dust and soot from the chimney of the Southern Railway carriage works at Lancing, Sussex; whether he is aware of the inconvenience thus caused to the residents at Lancing; can he say whether his inspectors have investigated this nuisance; and whether any action has been taken by his Department in the matter?

The MINISTER of HEALTH (Mr. Arthur Greenwood)

I have received a report from the Steyning West Rural District Council on this complaint, of which I had had no previous intimation. The council served upon the company in April a Statutory Notice for the abatement of a nuisance arising from the emission of black smoke at these works, following which an improvement of the conditions was observed. I understand that the council are keeping the premises under observation. The local authority have statutory powers to deal with smoke nuisance, and I see no sufficient reason for the intervention of my Department.

Mr. DAY

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the nuisance is as bad as ever, and does he not think that, with a view to protecting the amenities of the district, he should take some action in the matter?

Mr. GREENWOOD

As I have pointed out, it is a matter primarily for the local authorities, with whom I have been in communication.

39. Mr. PALMER

asked the Minister of Health if he will make inquiry into the nuisance obtaining in Blackwall Lane, Greenwich, whereby tenants of cottages are smothered with lamp-black from the lam-black factory?

Mr. GREENWOOD

I have received a report from the Metropolitan Borough Council, and I learn that proceedings were taken by the council in January last under Section 21 of the Public Health (London) Act, 1891, for the abatement of nuisance, to which the statutory defence was successfully pleaded by the company that they had adopted the best practicable means for abating the nuisance. I am informed, however, that other means are now in process of adoption by the company which may have better results.

Mr. PALMER

Is my right hon. Friend aware that, since these representations were made, the nuisance has been aggravated?

Mr. GREENWOOD

I am not aware of that fact, but I know that, as a result of consultations, the company are trying new methods to abate the nuisance.

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