HC Deb 11 February 1941 vol 368 c1211
24. Mr. Woodburn

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether his attention has been called to the report of the Forth District Salmon Fishery Board complaining of the pollution of the River Forth, causing high mortality among fish; and whether he can announce any measures to remedy this nuisance and prevent the consequent loss of food?

Mr. Westwood

I am aware of the report referred to. I am advised that the mortality in 1940 did not differ materially from that in previous seasons. In any case it would not be practicable under present conditions to undertake the extensive works which would be required to prevent pollution.

Mr. Mathers

Is the Minister aware of the difficulty, under present legislation, of dealing with pollution? May it not be possible to take advantage of the Bill on the Order Paper, the Land Drainage (Scotland) Bill, to obtain further powers?

Mr. Westwood

I am not sure that the Bill referred to will enable us, even because of its Title, to deal with a problem of that kind, but there were difficulties, and they were being considered by the Rivers Pollution Prevention Committee, which carried out extensive inquiries as far as the River Forth was concerned, but which, because of the outbreak of war, had no opportunity of presenting its report.