§ 4. Mr. Prydeasked the Minister of Fuel and Power if he will make a statement on the pollution of the River Tyne, in Midlothian, in view of the complaints that effluent from mineral workings has destroyed large numbers of brown trout recently.
§ Mr. P. Noel-BakerI am informed that the matter is under investigation by the Midlothian County Council, and until their conclusions are known, it would be, as I am sure my hon. Friend will understand, inadvisable for me to make a statement.
§ Mr. PrydeIn view of the fact that there have been complaints about 'the destruction of large numbers of trout at the beginning of the season, will my right hon. Friend see that assistance is given to angling associations in restocking the river?
§ Mr. Noel-BakerI think that would be a matter for the county council and the owners of the site or colliery or other cause of the pollution of the river. I regret the loss of trout as much as my hon. Friend, but I think that it will be for the local authorities to deal with the problem.
Commander GalbraithIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the pollution from this cause is also affecting the River Ayr? Will he make inquiries into this also?
§ Mr. Noel-Bakerif the hon. and gallant Gentleman will give me particulars, certainly.