§ 64. Mr. Dayasked the Minister of Health whether his attention has been called to the outbreak of typhoid, resulting fatally in many cases, in the Croydon district owing to the pollution of the water supplies; and, in view of the fact that this is a question which requires immediate Government action, what steps he proposes to take in the matter?
§ Sir K. WoodYes, Sir. I heard of this outbreak with great regret, and I directed my officers to visit the town immediately with a view to co-operating with the officials of the council with the result that effective steps were at once taken to safeguard the position as regards the water supply. I have informed the council that I propose to direct a public inquiry into all the circumstances of this epidemic.
§ Mr. LevyIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is no standard of purity for water supply in this country, and does he contemplate inaugurating such a standard?
§ Sir K. WoodThis question deals with particularly regrettable cases where a number of people have become infected. I am causing inquiries to be made into the matter, and I do not think that any general question of that kind arises.
§ Mr. H. G. WilliamsDoes the right hon. Gentleman propose to ask a legal gentleman who is not connected with the 576 Ministry to conduct the inquiry, in order that all possible suspicion may be removed?
§ Sir K. WoodYes, Sir. I think it would be best in the circumstances of this case that the inquiry should be held by a gentleman of legal qualifications, probably assisted by a medical officer and an engineering expert.
§ Mr. DayCan the right hon. Gentleman say why a warning was not given to the inhabitants of this district as soon as pollution was known to the medical officer?
§ Sir K. WoodThat is a matter which will, no doubt, be brought before the inquiry, and therefore I do not think it is desirable for me to discuss the merits of the matter.
§ Mr. DayWill the right hon. Gentleman give instructions that in future notification will be given to the inhabitants?