HC Deb 21 October 1952 vol 505 cc855-6
39. Mr. Swingler

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government if he is aware of the urgent need for the development of sewerage in the rural district of Newcastle-under-Lyme; and what steps he is taking to assist the local authority to undertake such development.

Mr. H. Macmillan

Schemes put forward by the council are under consideration.

Mr. Swingler

Does the answer mean that the Minister has not rejected the scheme put forward by the local authorities?

Mr. Macmillan

In the first case, the local investigation into the scheme was made only on the 14th of this month, and I am awaiting a report. Of course, I shall not decide until reports are received from the experts I have consulted.

Mr. E. L. Mallalieu

Is the Minister aware that raw sewage comes up from the drains into the dwelling-houses in Winter-ton in my constituency, and that £2,000 worth of work would be sufficient to put it right, and will be not give the greatest possible consideration to that proposal?

Mr. Macmillan

Yes, Sir; I am very grateful for the information given by the hon. and learned Gentleman and should be glad to meet him at a convenient opportunity.