§ 9. Mr. HENDERSON STEWARTasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware of the widespread demand for regional water and drainage schemes in Scotland; that such schemes are being held up because the cost is too great for the local authorities to bear; that, on account of the delay, housing developments in many districts are stopped; and whether he will consider the proposal to allot the sum of £2,000,000 for the purpose of assisting the carrying out of such schemes in Scotland in the immediate future?
§ Sir G. COLLINSI am aware that in some parts of Scotland increased water supplies or drainage facilities are necessary, and that schemes of a regional nature are being considered by local authorities. I am meeting representatives of the Association of County Councils next week about the matter and, in the meantime, I am not prepared to make any statement.
Mr. STEWARTWill the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind that an adequate 1941 water supply is essential, otherwise the millions of pounds spent on housing schemes are of little value?
§ Sir G. COLLINSI am quite well aware of that.
§ Mr. LEVYOught not the laying on of water to precede the building of houses? The one is so essential to the other.
§ Sir G. COLLINSLocal authorities take all these matters into consideration in putting forward housing schemes.