HC Deb 18 November 1952 vol 507 cc1568-9
27. Mr. Patrick Maitland

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what progress has been made in setting up a Clyde River Pollution Board.

Mr. J. Stuart

As I told the hon. Member on 17th June, I have sent draft proposals to the 21 local authorities concerned. Glasgow Corporation, who have the predominant interest, are taking the initiative in calling the various authorities together. I understand that the subcommittee responsible for the arrangements is meeting tomorrow, and I hope that a general meeting of all the authorities concerned to discuss the proposals will be held at an early date.

Mr. Maitland

While thanking my right hon. Friend for the progress which he has been able to announce, may I ask him whether he is aware that complaints against the pollution of the Clyde continue to be made and that as recently as last Saturday one appeared in the "Hamilton Advertiser" describing the river at Garrion Bridge as running as thick as tar? Will my right hon. Friend bear in mind that the interests of anglers are seriously affected by this continued nuisance?

Mrs. Mann

Will not the Secretary of State consider the fact that local authorities dislike river pollution and should not he set up a Clyde River "Non-Pollution" Board?

Mr. Stuart

I think we might say that the meeting which is being convened will be dealing with "non-pollution," if that is the correct expression. I certainly realise the feeling on this subject which my hon. Friend has expressed.