§ 52. Mr. Shortasked the Minister of Agriculture whether he is aware that, owing to the pollution of the Stainforth Canal, Doncaster, anglers are unable to fish in these waters; whether the cause of the pollution is being investigated; and whether he can make any statement?
§ The Minister of Agriculture (Mr. W. S. Morrison)As promised in answer to a question by the hon. Member on 2nd April last, inquiries were made into this matter, and investigation disclosed several 1630 possible sources of pollution. The matter has been referred to the two local authorities vested with anti-pollution powers, namely, the West Riding Rivers Board and the Yorkshire Fisheries Board, and is receiving their most careful consideration.
§ Mr. T. WilliamsCan the right hon. Gentleman say whether lie expects a reply from the two local authorities who are responsible?
§ Mr. MorrisonNo, I cannot say that. I have no direct power in the matter, but if the hon. Member is interested and if he will apply to the West Riding Board, I have no doubt they will give him the information that is in their possession.
§ Mr. WilliamsWill the right hon. Gentleman not inform the local authorities that the pollution of this canal is robbing my constituency of thousands of visitors, who would otherwise be there?
§ Mr. MorrisonI have already communicated my views to the authorities concerned.