HC Deb 22 June 1939 vol 348 cc2443-4
56. Mr. David Adams

asked the Minister of Health what progress is being made towards securing a smokeless atmosphere, particularly in connection with new housing blocks, municipal housing schemes, and private building estates?

Mr. Elliot

The hon. Member will appreciate that a quantitative assessment of the progress made is impracticable, but research, propaganda and the cooperation of local authorities and other organisations are continually being directed to secure the hon. Member's object. As regards the latter part of the question, smokeless methods of cooking and heating are being adopted to an increasing extent in new houses provided, whether by local authorities or private enterprise.

Mr. Adams

As this is a matter of supreme importance at the present time would it not be desirable for the Ministry of Health to schedule cases of the kind mentioned?

Mr. Elliot

The hon. Member asks what progress is being made, and I think it will be undesirable to go into that question in detail at Question Time.

Mr. Robert Gibson

Will the Minister consider the importance of extending the gas grid?

61. Mr. David Adams

asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that a pottery factory in Staffordshire has been converted to electric power, whereby smoke has been entirely eliminated; and what steps he is taking to induce, other industrialists in the Potteries and elsewhere to follow this example in the interests of cleanliness and smoke abatement?

Mr. Elliot

I am aware that electricity has been used for some time with great success in certain trades in the Potteries. My chief alkali inspector, in recent annual reports, has urged the extension of the practice, and has stressed the advantages of electricity and gas where available on economic terms, particularly in types of industry that are normally productive of heavy smoke. I have no doubt that smoke prevention authorities and industrial organisations in this and other industrial areas of the country are aware of the possibilities of the cleaner methods, the use of which I greatly welcome.

Mr. Adams

Would the Minister, in the public interest, consider whether a circular might be sent out to industrialists calling their attention to these reforms?

Vice-Admiral Taylor

Would my right hon. Friend consider bringing in a Measure to compel all towns with over a certain number of inhabitants to burn nothing but smokeless fuel?