§ 51. Mr. Cocksasked the Minister of Health whether he is now in a position to state the circumstances regarding the precautions taken on 5th and 6th June to ensure the purity of the water supply of Hucknall, Nottinghamshire; whether the cause of the presence of bacillus coli has been ascertained, and whether this bacillus is dangerous; and is he satisfied that this water supply is now free from any danger to health?
§ Mr. ElliotContamination of the water supply was disclosed by a routine analysis made on behalf of the local authority. The supply was immediately chlorinated. Investigation by the local authority of the cause of the presence of bacillus coli is proceeding with the assistance of a consulting engineer. The presence of bacillus coli, though not in itself dangerous, is an indication of possible contamination by sewage which may contain organisms of disease. Analyses made subsequent to chlorination indicate that the water is now free from danger to health.
§ Mr. CocksIs it not the fact that the local officials acted with great promptitude and efficiency in this matter?
§ Mr. ElliotYes, Sir. I think it may be said that the clearing up of the water supply has been quickly done.