§ 52. Mr. George Jegerasked the Minister of Agriculture how many farms and rural households have been first supplied with piped water during the past year; and to how many it is proposed to extend the supply during the coming year.
§ Sir T. DugdaleI regret that the precise information for which the hon. Member asks is not available.
§ Mr. JegerWould the Minister bear in mind the importance of continuing the supply of piped water to farmers in view of the necessity for increasing our farm output?
§ Sir T. DugdaleYes, Sir. Perhaps I might give the hon. Gentleman the reason why I cannot give the precise figures for which he asked. It is because he used the words "first supplied," but I should like to inform the House that in the 12 months ending 31st October, grants amounting to £837,670 were paid by my Department to farm and agricultural holdings in respect of 7,819 completed water supply schemes in England and Wales.
§ Mr. AlportWould my right hon. and gallant Friend review the workings of the 1945 Water Act in view of the failure of the last Government to implement effectively its provisions?