HC Deb 05 July 1938 vol 338 c166
18. Mr. Johnston

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware that there are parts of Scotland where the provisions of the Rivers Pollution Act are being disregarded; whether his attention has been called to the continuous discharge of waste oil and coal gum into the River Luggie, in North Lanarkshire and Dumbartonshire, and that the putrescent odours emanating from the river are seriously to the detriment of public health; and what steps he proposes to take in the matter?

Mr. Colville

I am aware that there are streams in Scotland which are polluted. My attention has not been directed to the discharge of waste oil and coal gum into the River Luggie, but I am arranging for a report by officers of the Department of Health for Scotland on the condition of the river and I shall communicate with the right hon. Member when that report is received.

Mr. Johnston

Has the right hon. Gentleman done anything whatsoever with the reports of the Rivers Pollution Committee which have been presented to the Scottish Office for the past 10 years?

Mr. Colville

I know the difficulties of the problem. I cannot on this occasion say any more.

Mr. Mathers

Does not the experience of the right hon. Gentleman and his Department point to the need for improved legislation?

Mr. Cassells

When these investigations are being carried through, will the right hon. Gentleman at the same time give consideration to the condition of the River Carron?

Mr. Colville

I will consider that matter also. In the meantime, I am dealing with the point put to me by the right hon. Gentleman.