44. Mr. Charltonasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that in North Devon out of the 203 parishes only 26 have piped water supplies; how many other rural parishes in England are without piped supplies; and what steps he is taking to remedy this state of affairs?
§ Mr. ElliotI am aware of the position in North Devon. Schemes are at present under construction for 14 parishes, and I have under consideration applications for sanction to schemes for a further five parishes. In addition, the county council have prepared a regional scheme for a large part of North Devon which is being considered by the local authorities. According to my records there are 3,597 parishes in England without piped supplies. The necessary provision is, in the first place, a matter.for the local authorities, but I am always prepared to give sympathetic consideration to any proposals which might be submitted to me.
Mr. CharltonWill the Minister take into account the question of air raids and the importance of seeing that the pipe systems have not only one source of supply?
§ Mr. Henderson StewartIs the Minister aware that in counties like Derbyshire the provision of milk is in a very serious position, being held up on account of the lack 390 of water supply, and that this is a most serious matter?