§ Mr. ATTLEE(by Private Notice) asked the Prime Minister what is the present position with regard to water supplies in the country, and what measures are proposed to meet the conditions arising out of the drought?
§ The PRIME MINISTERThe reserves of many water undertakers have fallen to a low level for this time of the year. The Government have been carefully watching the situation and, because of the continued absence of abundant rains, are 16 satisfied that emergency measures must be taken. Therefore, in view of seriousness of the position, the Government propose to bring legislation before the House immediately. The Minister of Health will present a Bill to-morrow, copies of which I am arranging to be available to Members in the Vote Office about six o'clock. The Second Reading will be taken on Thursday instead of the Milk (Money) Resolution and other Business announced for that day.
§ Mr. ATTLEEAre we to take it that the legislation which the House has only just passed is totally insufficient to meet the situation in the country?
§ The PRIME MINISTERIt was quite sufficient for its purpose, but the situation has worsened and requires a Measure of a different character. That Measure will be introduced to-morrow.
§ Mr. LEVYIs the Prime Minister contemplating a development of the undeveloped resources of subterranean water, which are ample in this country?