HC Deb 10 February 1953 vol 511 cc215-6
47. Mr. Pryde

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what steps have been taken by his Department to implement the provisions of the Rivers (Prevention of Pollution) (Scotland) Act, 1951, in the counties of Midlothian and Peebles.

Mr. J. Stuart

Orders will be made shortly establishing river purification boards for the Lothians and Tweed areas. These Orders will cover the whole of the counties of Midlothian and Peebles.

Mr. Pryde

Is the Minister aware that there is a strong feeling in Midlothian and Peebles that the situation has become a great deal worse during this year?

Mr. Stuart

The Orders to which I have referred will be made before the end of this month. We are trying to make progress.

Mr. Boothby

May I ask my right hon. Friend whether he is aware that some of the very small burghs may be hard hit by this, and required to produce sewage schemes far beyond their financial capacity? Will he bear this aspect in mind?

Mr. Stuart

Yes, Sir, it will be borne in mind.

Mr. Pryde

May I ask the Minister if he remembers that, when we discussed that Act, one of the Scottish Ministers and myself expressed this point of view and that we did not get the backing of the hon. Member for East Aberdeenshire (Mr. Boothby)?