§ 36. Mr. Oliverasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware of the serious condition of the Ilkeston water supply by reason of underground coal working near the Harepool reservoir; and what steps he is taking to safeguard an adequate supply of water to Ilkeston.
§ Mr. BevanYes, Sir. The Town Council are negotiating with the National Coal Board to delay coal working until a new reservoir comes into operation. A high priority has been obtained for this reservoir and I will do everything I can to assist its rapid completion.
§ Mr. OliverCan the right hon. Gentleman say whether he has any power to prescribe an area as a water area and to prevent workings taking place which are likely to interfere with the water supply?
§ Mr. BevanThere is, of course, a very considerable degree of competition between the claims of coal and the claims of water.