HC Deb 07 December 1933 vol 283 cc1815-6
30. Mr. HALL-CAINE

asked the Minister of Health if he can give any indication as to the conditions which will qualify local authorities to apply for assistance from the Government grant set aside for the improvement of rural water supplies?

Sir H. YOUNG

A Bill to authorise the grant will be introduced shortly. It is intended that grants will be made in aid of approved schemes of rural water supply where the cost, after allowing for fair contributions from county councils and rural district councils and the income from proper charges on water consumers, would involve a deficiency rate on the parish greater than the parish could reasonably be expected to bear.

Mr. T. WILLIAMS

Will the landowners who will benefit through this £1,000,000 scheme make any contribution to the cost?

Mr. D. G. SOMERVILLE

Can the right hon. Gentleman say what percentage of grant will be given in these cases?

Sir H. YOUNG

As regards particulars of the scheme, probably it would be better to await the actual provisions of the Bill.

Mr. WILLIAMS

May I have a reply to my question? Will the right hon. Gentleman say whether any of the landowners in the respective areas are making any contribution, and what surcharge is being made upon them?

Sir H. YOUNG

It appears to me the hon. Member's question is merely a matter for argument on the Bill.