HC Deb 07 March 1939 vol 344 cc1913-4
62. Mr. Johnston

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland when the Committee on Rivers Pollution in Scotland last met; and when he expects its next report?

Mr. Colville

The last formal meeting of the committee was on 15th October, 1937. A draft report is being prepared and every effort will be made to expedite its publication.

Mr. Johnston

In view of the importance of this matter, does not the right hon. Gentleman think that a year and a-half is too long a period to elapse before this committee reports?

Mr. Colville

The reason for the delay is that certain officers engaged on this work were temporarily detached for emergency work. I am anxious to push forward the report as quickly as I can.

Mr. Mathers

Does not the right hon. Gentleman consider that it is time he had further powers to deal with river pollution in Scotland?

Mr. Colville

That is another question.