HC Deb 15 June 1944 vol 400 cc2143-4
38. Lieut.-Colonel Heneage

asked the Minister of Health whether the catchment board was consulted before compensation water was cut down for the benefit of the water supply of a certain area, of which the name has been supplied to him; if a public inquiry was held; and to what extent it is his intention to interfere with compensation rates settled by Acts of Parliament.

Mr. Willink

I apologise to the House for the length of the reply—

Hon. Members

Circulate it.

Mr. Speaker

Perhaps it is the wish of the House that the right hon. and learned Gentleman should make his statement at the end of Question Time?

Hon. Members

Hear, hear.

Later—

Mr. Willink

In this instance it was represented to me by the water undertaking concerned that, owing to lack of rainfall, a reduction of compensation water would be necessary if they were to be able to meet prospective requests, later in the year, for emergency supplies to certain other undertakings covering important areas. Normally, a local inquiry would have been held, of which due notice would have been given to the catchment board and other interests. It became evident, however, that, owing to the rapid falling in the level of the reservoir, due to the lack of rainfall, delay in taking action would, for technical engineering reasons special to the particular case, render the proposed action abortive. In these circumstances, I departed from my usual practice to the extent of making an interim Order, on 3rd June, to come into operation forthwith as a matter of urgency. The catchment board and others concerned were at once notified, and given full opportunity to make representations by 30th June, as to the period of operation of the Order. I have already received an intimation from the catchment board that they would wish to be heard on the question of renewal of the Order, which is at present due to expire on 31st July, and I am arranging for a local inquiry to be held early next month.

Lieut.-Colonel Heneage

Can my right hon. and learned Friend say that all the suitable local interests, such as the agricultural interests, will be consulted? I am sure that he is aware that it is a very serious thing, for cattle and other things, that the compensation water should be cut down.

Mr. Willink

I appreciate that this is a serious and unusual measure to take. It is within a power similar to one given in rather similar circumstances in 1934. It was taken with due thought; and all those concerned have been notified and will have an opportunity of making their representations.