HC Deb 13 February 1940 vol 357 c583
67. Mr. Kirkwood

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he has now given further consideration to the application of the joint committee of the county council and the town council of Dumbarton for a grant towards emergency water schemes; and if, in view of the urgency of these measures and the fact that they cannot be undertaken unless such a grant is made, he will make an immediate grant for these purposes?

Mr. Colville

The answer to the first part of the Question is in the affirmative. As regards the second part I am prepared to approve Scheme No. I for grant purposes and the joint committee have been so informed. The exenditure involved in Scheme No. 2 seems unjustifiable in view of the alternative arrangements made to meet an emergency at this point and I have therefore been unable to approve the scheme for purposes of grant.

Mr. Kirkwood

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that because of the national emergency I cannot put down in this Question what is behind it? Will he reconsider his decision and see that the expenditure is met from national sources rather than local sources?

Mr. Colville

The hon. Gentleman and myself are both in the same difficulty as regards discussing this Question across the Floor of the House, but perhaps we can have a word about it later.