§ 26. Mr. E. DUNNasked the Minister of Agriculture whether, in view of the fact that much valuable land is out of cultivation and agricultural uses in the Rother Valley, in the areas of Killa- 865 marsh, Beighton Catcliffe, Canklow, and Whiston, consequent upon the flooding of the River Rother, any scheme of land drainage for that area is contemplated by the Ouse Catchment Board?
§ Mr. ELLIOTThe scheme for improving the drainage system of the River Don and its tributaries which is being carried out by the catchment board includes provision for the improvement of the River Rother between Rotherham and Chesterfield, but these latter works depend to some extent upon the progress of the work on the Lower Don.
§ Mr. DUNNIn view of the fact that the land has been out of cultivation for a half century and that there are families in that area who have not worked since 1921, will the Minister take steps to expedite the scheme?
§ Mr. ELLIOTIt depends to some extent on the drainage works on the Lower Don. It is very important to get the out-fall first.
§ Mr. DUNNIf it is dependent upon that, will it not be a further half century before the work is done?
§ Mr. PALINGIs any consideration being given to the difficulties which have arisen between the parties responsible for the work on the Lower Don?