§ 2. Mr. KIRKWOODasked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many local authorities in Scotland have reported a shortage of water supplies; how many villages have no proper supply, even apart from the drought; what action does the Government propose to ensure a supply for all parts of Scotland; and is he aware that in the vicinity of Loch Katrine there are hamlets and villages which have been short of water supplies since last summer?
§ Mr. SKELTONAs regards the first two parts of the question, of the local authorities who have so far replied to the inquiry made by the Department of Health in January last, 50 town councils and nine county councils have reported a shortage of water in their areas during 1933. The replies from the nine county councils referred to shortages in 65 special water supply districts and 43 villages without publicly-owned supplies. As regards the third part, the Department propose, immediately the Bill at present under consideration in another place is passed, to invite applications from local authorities who desire to participate in the grant to be made available for the improvement of rural water supplies. As already stated in the House, the Government have under consideration further steps for dealing with an emergency due to the drought should circumstances so require. As regards the last part of the question, I am informed that the only village in the vicinity of Loch Katrine which has been short of water since last summer is Brig o' Turk, and 1784 that this case is at present receiving the attention of the County Council of Perth.
§ Mr. KIRKWOODDoes the hon. Gentleman not think it a scandal that even in one place there should be a shortage of water right in the heart of the
land of the mountain and the flood." where they are surrounded by water?
§ Mr. SPEAKERThe hon. Member has received a very full answer to the question on the Paper.