§ 52. Mr. NEIL MACLEANasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware of the complaints made in Lanarkshire against the coal binge which are burning there and because of the fumes which are a menace to the health of the people; and what action he pro poses to take against the parties responsible?
§ Sir G. COLLINSThe matter referred to is primarily one for the local authority under the Public Health (Scotland) Act, 1897. Only one complaint has been made to the Department of Health for Scotland in regard to burning binge in Lanarkshire. As a result of inspection the owners of this bing have undertaken to consider what action can be taken to extinguish the fire.
§ Mr. MACLEANIs it not the case that in Lanarkshire and other counties these bings are burning and causing a great deal of annoyance to the public, as well as being a menace to health, and will the right hon. Gentleman make inquiries as to what action the local authorities are taking to stop the nuisance I.
§ Sir G. COLLINSAs my hon. Friend knows, the matter is primarily one for the local authorities under the Act referred to, but, if my attention is called to any specific case which is not being dealt with, I will make inquiries.
§ Mr. TINKERIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that this is a growing evil not only in Scotland but in our country? Do not let Scotland get as bad as Lancashire. Try to stop it.
§ Sir G. COLLINSI am sure that Scot land will not fall behind in this matter.
§ Mr. WESTWill the right hon. Gentle man ask the Government to give facilities for the Bill introduced by my hon. Friend the Member for Leigh (Mr. Tinker) to deal with the matter?