§ 70. Mr. Tinkerasked the Minister of Health whether his attention has been drawn to a speech made by Sir George Gillett, Commissioner for the Special Areas in England and Wales, referring to the problem of ugly sites and slag heaps; and what steps his Department are taking to prevent this same kind of problem arising through colliery companies creating huge pit-heaps which get on fire, causing discomfort to the people and making unsightly the whole neighbourhood?
§ Sir K. WoodThe reply to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. My inspectors are in close touch with colliery owners on this problem, and these owners usually co-operate readily in dealing with pit-heaps on fire and also in methods of deposit designed to prevent firing.
§ Mr. TinkerAm I to assume from the reply that the right hon. Gentleman has not power under the Public Health Acts to deal with this question, and if that is so, will he help me if I bring in a private Member's Bill?
§ Sir K. WoodI am always ready to help the hon. Member, as he knows, but I should first like to see the Measure. I myself prefer methods of co-operation and conciliation in this matter.