§ 21 and 22. Mr. E. J. WILLIAMSasked the Minister of Labour (1) whether the Government's decision to embark upon the construction of works at Bridgend was taken into consideration by the Special Areas Commissioner prior to making his decision on the Mid-Glamorganshire sewage scheme; and whether he is aware that this scheme is the unanimous demand of the local authorities;
(2) whether he will advise the Special Areas Commissioner for England and Wales to reconsider his decision on the main trunk sewage scheme for Mid-Glamorgan, particularly in view of the heavy maintenance charges which will fall on these depressed local authorities under his proposals of isolated action?
§ Mr. E. BROWNI am informed that, although the maintenance cost of a combined Mid-Glamorgan sewerage scheme would be slightly less than the corresponding cost for separate schemes for the four local authorities concerned, the extra capital cost of such a scheme would far outweigh any saving on maintenance cost. When the commissioner for the Special Areas decided in principle to reject a combined scheme in favour of separate schemes, no announcement had been made regarding a War Department establishment at Bridgend. The effect of such an establishment has not been overlooked, but in view of the wide margin of cost between the two alternatives and the location of the new factory it is most unlikely that the higher cost of a combined scheme can be justified.
§ Mr. WILLIAMSIn reply to previous questions, we were told that the difference was £90,000, and as the four local authorities believe that the maintenance charges will involve a substantially increased cost, may I ask the Minister to reconsider the matter, particularly in view of the unanimous decision by the authorities?