§ 41. Captain RAMSAYasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware that occupants of a certain number of houses in Bonnyrigg are being charged a water rate of about 3½d. a week, in spite of the fact that they have no water laid on in their houses and have to share with many others an outside water supply, and not always adequate; and will he take steps in the matter?
§ The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for SCOTLAND (Lieut.-Colonel Colville)I am aware that in the case of certain houses in the village of Sherwood, near Bonnyrigg, to which I assume the question relates, a charge of 3½d. per week in respect of water supply is made by the Lothian Coal Company owning the houses and that water has not vet been introduced into the houses. The county council are, however, in communication with the company on the question of improvements in the houses, including the introduction of water, and I shall keep my hon. and gallant Friend informed of developments.
§ Captain RAMSAYIn view of the fact that this situation has been going on for a long time and that these people have been continuing to pay water rate when they have had no water, and in view also of the fact that the subject is rather confused by the question of certain houses getting priority in regard to baths, will my hon. and gallant Friend see that a supply of water to these houses is made one of priority?
§ Lieut.-Colonel COLVILLEI will note what my hon. and gallant Friend says, 28 but I can assure him that the Department of Health are in touch with the county council, and we are doing all we can to expedite the matter.