§ 8. Sir Ralph Glynasked the Secretary of State for War whether he will take immediate steps to prevent the proposals to take water and erect military works in certain areas, of which he has been informed, in view of the existing shortage of water due to low rainfall and present difficulties in supplying water to villages and for farm stock.
§ Sir J. GriggI am aware of the shortage of water to which my hon. Friend refers. A committee representing the Services, the Ministry of Health and the Regional Commissioners is about to study the problem locally with a view to ensuring that the needs of the civil population in the area are safeguarded and detailed instructions have recently been issued to the troops in the area to prevent the waste and contamination of water supplies. Apart from certain measures to prevent damage to roads and the disturbance of cattle sanctuaries, I am not aware of any military works being carried out but investigations are being made into this on the spot. My hon. Friend will appreciate that the proper training of the troops—for which purpose the use of the land is taken in the first place—would be severely handicapped if they could not erect any works necessary for this training and if they could not use the water in the area.
§ Sir R. GlynWhile thanking my right hon. Friend for his reply, may I ask him whether he is aware that the troops in question came into the area without notice yesterday, and filled up their water wagons from these resources, which means that people cannot remain in the area and that immediate action is necessary?
§ Sir J. GriggImmediate action has been taken. The point about short notice is a new one, and I would like to look into it.