§ 58. Mr. Gallacherasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware that in the village of Auchtertool, West Fife, water has to be carried from a well in the street; that drainage from houses runs along the open gutter; that paraffin lamps have to be used to provide lighting; that new houses built in the village have been supplied with electric fittings but the Fife Power Company refuses to supply the village with electricity; and will he take steps to see that this village is given the opportunity of enjoying adequate sanitation and lighting?
§ Mr. ElliotI am aware of the circumstances to which the hon. Member refers in the first four parts of the question. So far as water supply is concerned, the Department of Health are taking up with the county council the question of introducing a supply into such houses as at present depend on street wells. As regards drainage, the village was recently formed into a special district and I understand that the county council have a drainage scheme under consideration. With regard to lighting, I understand that the extension of an electricity supply to the village is estimated to cost £1,800, and that the estimated gross revenue is only £90 to £100. In the circumstances the Fife Electric Power Company with whom the decision in the matter rests, do not see their way to proceed with this extension.
§ Mr. GallacherIn view of the situation which exists in the village, can the Minister not arrange for one of his representatives to visit it and end this shocking state of affairs?
§ Mr. ElliotThe matter will be looked into in the usual course of events respecting water and drainage, but lighting is under the Fife Electric Power Company.
§ Mr. GallacherMay I point out that current is passing this village in every direction, even to mansion houses in the country, while the Fife Company refuse to put electric light in the village?
§ Mr. ElliotI will refer the matter to my right hon. Friend the Minister of Transport.