§ 32. Mr. LEVYasked the Minister of Health what progress has now been made with the provision of adequate supplies of water for those parts of the country, especially the rural areas, which are liable to severe shortage during the summer months and consequent distress?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of HEALTH (Mr. Shakespeare)Since the drought of 1933–34 schemes have been undertaken with the aid of the Government grant for 2,350 parishes, at a total estimated cost of over £7,000,000. In addition, loans totalling £1,340,000 have been sanctioned for schemes for 400 parishes proceeding without grant. Urban supplies have been improved where necessary.
§ Mr. LEVYIs the Minister not aware that the multiplicity of water authorities causes confusion, selfishness and shortage where no shortage need be?
§ Miss WILKINSONIn view of the terrific pressure in the country districts, and: in the home counties, due to the movement out of the London population, is the Department considering any planning of adequate water supplies in places where it is utterly impossible for the local authorities to do it?
§ Mr. SHAKESPEAREThese questions are constantly under review by our advisory committee.
§ Miss WILKINSONWhat good is that?
§ Sir ARTHUR MICHAEL SAMUELIs not a Joint Committee of both Houses dealing with this very point, and might we not expect to have a report from the committee in the immediate future?
§ Mr. SHAKESPEAREThat is so.
§ Sir P. HARRISIs it not time for action?