USK, WYE AND EBBW RIVERS

HC Deb 21 June 1951 vol 489 c707

48. Mr. Peter Freeman

asked the Minister of Agriculture when he proposes to appoint the joint rivers board for the Usk, Wye and Ebbw rivers, in view of the large industrial and other developments proceeding in these areas and the repeated overflowing of the Ebbw, near Newport.

Mr. T. Williams

The Order defining the Wye and Usk River Board Area was made on 22nd May. Certain authorities that objected to the draft Order have now required the Order to be subject to special Parliamentary procedure. Until this procedure is concluded, no action can be taken to constitute the river board.

Mr. Freeman

Can my right hon. Friend say when he will be able to make a decision?

Mr. Williams

Not until the Parliamentary procedure has been adopted.

Mr. E. L. Mallalieu

Can my right hon. Friend assure the House that the Government are taking steps to contain all outpourings from Ebbw Vale?