§ 68. Sir J. NALLasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware of the increasing pollution of the River Irwell and the consequent menace to health; and what steps are being taken to insist upon adequate treatment of sewage effluent discharged into the river?
§ The MINISTER of HEALTH (Sir Kingsley Wood)My inquiries do not suggest that the pollution of this river is increasing. The supervision of the discharges into the river is vested in the Mersey and Irwell Joint Committee, and I have no reason to suppose that their duties are not being satisfactorily performed. If my hon. Friend has any information on the matter, I shall be glad if he will let me have it.
§ Mr. TINKERWill the right hon. Gentleman pay a visit to the River Irwell and see the position for himself?
§ Sir J. NALLWill the right hon. Gentleman make inquiries as to the source of the information that he has given in his answer, because it is quite contrary to the facts?
§ Sir K. WOODI am aware of the source of my own information. If the hon. Member has any information, I would ask him to send it to me.