HC Deb 13 April 1934 vol 288 cc669-70

Question proposed, "That the Clause stand part of the Bill."

2.4 p.m.

Mr. C. WILLIAMS

It is a very remarkable thing that this Bill, which is of great value, is not to apply to Scot-land. Is there a Member of the Scottish Office here to explain why not? They are having water difficulties in Scotland, and I should like to know why the Bill does not apply to that country as well as to England.

Lieut.-Colonel MOORE

Has my hon. Friend finished? I simply want to know if he has finished his question. If he has, I will reply to it, because I prefer not to waste time by answering two separate questions.

Mr. WILLIAMS

I congratulate my hon. and gallant Friend on his new and original outlook. I asked him whether the Scottish Members are satisfied at Scotland being left out of the Bill. I will ask the hon. Gentleman who has been very courteous in the way he has conducted the Bill through the House whether he is assured by the Scottish authorities that they are satisfied at Scotland being left out.

2.6 p.m.

Mr. CHORLTON

I do not know that there is any fundamental reason why Scotland is left out. When the Bill was drafted the scarcity of water in Scotland had not arisen except in remote places where these advantages arising from the Bill would not arise. Further it was not considered necessary to bring in any consideration which might delay the passage of the Bill, and as the advantages that would arise from it would be in England, it was not considered necessary to include Scotland.

Mr. WILLIAMS

I am glad the omission of Scotland seems satisfactory and I thank my hon. Friend for his courtesy.

Question put, and agreed to.

Bill reported; as amended, to be considered upon Friday next, and to be printed. [Bill 103.]