HC Deb 25 March 1948 vol 448 cc3328-9
30. Mr. Bossom

asked the Minister of Health if he is making special efforts at this time to ensure the provision of pipe water for both houses and fire protection services in rural villages.

Mr. Bevan

Very substantial progress is being made with the planning of schemes of rural water supply. The local authorities are required to consult the fire authorities when plans are in preparation so that adequate provision can be made for fire fighting where necessary.

Mr. Bossom

I quite understand that plans are essential, but is the Minister making any special efforts to get piped water for use in the houses and for fire service purposes?

Mr. Bevan

We have made more efforts in two and a half years than were made in 30 years before. The main reason why more progress cannot be made in the supply of piped water in rural areas is because sufficient provision was not made in the past to produce the steel necessary for that purpose.

Colonel Clarke

Does the Minister realise that in a number of villages the provision of water is being hampered because the Army, or other Services, are still retaining premises under requisition —very often unoccupied—and that, until it is certain that such premises will not be occupied, that water cannot be used for the ordinary civilian population? Will he make the necessary representations to his right hon. Friend the Service Minister responsible?

Mr. Bevan

With all respect, that is not a question even remotely related to the one on the Order Paper. If the hon. and gallant Gentleman will send me particulars, I will investigate the matter.

Mr. David Eccles

Is the Minister aware that of all the schemes submitted to him since he took office less than 10 per cent. have so far been passed by his Ministry, and is not the real reason for that the fact that his Ministry's allocation of labour and material for piped water is so low that they dare not give any more approvals?

Mr. Bevan

It may be perfectly true that the number of schemes put in hand represent only a small percentage of those submitted, but that number represents far more than those undertaken before.

Mr. Bossom

The Minister said he had difficulty about supplying steel. Is it not a fact that the steel industry are now providing more steel than ever before, and, that being so, how can he offer that as an excuse?

Mr. Bevan

Everybody knows that more steel is being consumed than ever before.

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