45. Mr. De la Bèreasked the Minister of Agriculture whether, in view of the unsuitability of much of the land of this country for mole drainage, he will amend the Agriculture (Miscellaneous War Provisions) Act in respect of mole drainage, to permit of it being more flexible and applicable up to the maximum of £5 per acre for any form of drainage which might be passed as suitable by the County War Agricultural Executive Committees?
§ Sir R. Dorman-SmithThe possibility of financial assistance being made available for the carrying out of field drainage, other than mole drainage, presents difficulties as regards cost, labour and materials, but the matter is receiving attention in connection with next season's production campaign.
Mr. De la BèreAre we to understand that for this season the scheme is flexible? Is my right hon. and gallant Friend aware that I am inflexible in my determination to make it flexible?
46. Mr. De la Bèreasked the Minister of Agriculture whether, in connection with farmers and agriculturists whose land is 362 being adversely affected as a result of the refusal of their neighbouring landowners, and especially building contractors, to ditch and drain their land, he will introduce legislation to compel all owners of land properly to ditch and drain where such an operation can be proved to be necessary for the proper cultivation of the adjoining lands?
§ Sir R. Dorman-SmithUnder the Land Drainage Act, 1930, it is already the duty of a person having control of a watercourse to put it in proper order if by reason of the condition of the watercourse agricultural land belonging to or in the occupation of another person is injured by water or is in danger of being so injured. Drainage authorities, including county councils, have power in such a case to serve a notice requiring the person responsible to put the watercourse in proper order. No further legislation, therefore, seems necessary.
Mr. De la BèreIs my right hon. and gallant Friend aware that there are many cases where the war efforts of individuals are nullified by the neglect of their neighbours? Will he take the matter up very urgently if I see him afterwards about it?