HC Deb 26 November 1946 vol 430 cc1393-4
23. Mr. Mathers

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he has taken any action on the application by Grange mouth Town Council for approval of their water scheme upon which depends the provision of employment for 1,000 workers in the area through the extension of the I.C.I. factory; and whether he will make a statement.

Mr. Westwood

Yes, Sir. On 31st October—the day after I was informed of the result of negotiations betwen the town council and the Stirlingshire and Falkirk Water Board—I informed the town council that I agreed in principle with their proposals and that, subject to my statutory duty to consider objections, I would be prepared to entertain an application for an order under the Water (Scotland) Act, 1946, conferring the necessary powers on the council. On 22nd November the town council replied that they proposed to make application for such an order.

Mr. Mathers

In view of the report that I.C.I. have placed a time limit upon giving a decision in regard to this matter, will my right hon. Friend use what powers he has to see that no delay takes place in dealing with the application?

Mr. Westwood

Evidence of that is contained in the answer I have given, which states that on the very next day after the receipt of the application instructions were given to the town council to go ahead.

Mr. Mathers

But the right hon. Gentleman will be aware that further steps have still to be taken?