HC Deb 29 June 1944 vol 401 c781
15. Miss Ward

asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware of the polluted state of the River Tyne; and what steps he is taking to deal with it.

Mr. Willink

Yes, Sir. I am aware that pollution of the Tyne by sewage is substantial and of long standing. It is evident from information in my possession that to remedy these conditions must involve a very large expenditure of labour, materials and money and I regret that I cannot hold out any hope of speedy remedial action.

Miss Ward

Why was not the matter tackled when Sir Malcolm Stewart, as Commissioner for the Special Area, made his report?

Mr. Willink

That is not a question for me.

Miss Ward

Will the right hon. and learned Gentleman kindly look into it, because it is very dilatory action for it not to be put into operation?

Sir Herbert Williams

I understand that this will cost labour, materials and money. What is the money for apart from labour and materials?

Mr. Shinwell

As this is a matter not merely of local but of national interest affecting many other parts of the country, have the Government any plans for after the war, when material, labour and presumably money will be available? Is not this desirable in connection with reconstruction after the war?

Mr. Willink

I have information in my Department as to what should be done. The advice I have received, however, is that this is a matter which will not be of first priority in the immediate after-war period, important though it is.