HC Deb 09 December 1937 vol 330 c570
60. Mr. Grenfell

asked the Minister of Health the number of schemes for supplying water in rural areas which have been approved in the last three years; and whether he will circularise local authorities to call attention to the need for providing water for cottages and farms in their areas?

Sir K. Wood

During this period, schemes have been approved for 2,400 parishes at a total estimated capital cost of £7,500,000. I have no evidence that local authorities are not fully alive to the need for proper water supplies to cottages, and they have ample powers under the Public Health Act, 1936, of securing this. As regards farm supplies, I would refer the hon. Member to my reply to a question on the subject by my hon. Friend the Member for Evesham (Mr. De la Bère) on 2nd December.

Mr. Levy

Are geological surveys made in every instance before the approval of the scheme?

Sir K. Wood

I cannot say; I will make inquiries on the point.