§ 58. Mr. MATHERSasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware of the inadequacy of the provisions of the Act of 1876 to deal effectively with river pollution; and whether it is his intention to put local authorities in a, better position to deal with this menace to health and amenity?
§ Sir K. WOODI am not aware that the provisions of this Act are inadequate. The Joint Committee on River Pollution are at present considering what measures are desirable to secure a more effective administration of the Act.
§ Mr. MATHERSIs it not a fact chat local authorities only have the power meantime to warn those who pollute -streams, and that without very many chances being given to them they cannot be prosecuted?
§ Sir K. WOODThe Joint Committee considered the provisions of the Act and, with one or two exceptions of a minor character did not think that they needed any alteration. What was considered desirable was further notice by the local authorities themselves. It is that matter to which the Joint Committee are directing their attention.