HC Deb 03 December 1936 vol 318 cc1425-6
56. Miss WARD

asked the Minister of Health whether he has considered the report of the joint committee on the re-organisation of the water supplies of the country; and what action does he propose to take in the matter?

64. Mr. LAWSON

asked the Minister of Health whether he has yet arrived at any decision in respect to the recommendations of the Joint Committee on Water Resources and Supplies and, in particular, to the recommendation that a central advisory water board should be set up; and whether he can state his decision?

Sir K. WOOD

I have considered this report. I cannot hold out any prospect of water legislation this Session; but I have decided, as a first step, after consultation with the other Departments concerned, to set up a central advisory water committee. The terms of reference and constitution of the committee are now being formulated.

Miss WARD

Will the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind that some of the suggestions made in the report were originally made as long ago as 1921, and if he cannot promise legislation this Session might we have an assurance that there will be legislation before the dissolution of this Parliament?

Mr. LEVY

May I ask whether it is suggested that this central advisory board should control the regional advisory committees which were set up in various parts of the country?

Sir K. WOOD

Obviously this committee will advise.

Mr. W. A. ROBINSON

Can the right hon. Gentleman say why no replies have been sent to the letters I have addressed to him in regard to the shortage of water supply in the parish of Sealand, in the county of Flint?

Sir K. WOOD

I am sorry that no reply has been received, and I will look into the matter.