HC Deb 11 May 1944 vol 399 cc2062-3
12. Sir John Mellor

asked the Minister of Health what reports he has received from the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research and other authorities with regard to the nuisance during recent weeks, near Minworth and Curdworth, from crane flies, which breed in the sewage filter beds of the Birmingham Tame and Rea District Drainage Board; and to what extent measures taken by the drainage board have reduced this nuisance by comparison with the corresponding periods of previous years.

The Minister of Health (Mr. Millink)

The information received from the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research indicates that this is a matter requiring lengthy expert investigation, which is continuing. The trouble varies greatly with the weather, and it is not, therefore, easy to assess results by comparison with previous years. A chemical treatment is now to be tried. I shall be happy to arrange for my hon. Friend to discuss the matter with the investigators, if desired.

Sir J. Mellor

While thanking my right hon. and learned Friend for his reply may I ask him whether he will have this horrible nuisance kept under specially close observation during the next few weeks?

Mr. Willink

Certainly, Sir. As my hon. Friend knows, it is being considered by the Water Pollution Research Board, and two universities, and I will take note of what he has suggested.

Mr. Keeling

Is my right hon. and learned Friend aware that this nuisance is not confined to the Birmingham area; and will he consider having an inquiry as to the prevalence of the nuisance over the whole country?

Mr. Willink

All of us who are aware that the crane fly is the "daddy long legs," or leather-jacket, are aware that the nuisance is prevalent over the whole country.

Mr. Shinwell

Will the right hon. and learned Gentlemen stop considering, and get something done?

Mr. Keeling

Will my right hon. and learned Friend answer my question whether he will have an inquiry into the prevalence of the nuisance over the whole country?

Mr. Willink

I will consider that.