§ 34. Mr. Manuelasked the Secretary of State for Scotland when he expects to introduce drainage legislation which will enable steps to be taken to prevent the flooding of houses and agricultural land.
§ Mr. SnaddenAs I indicated to the hon. Member in a reply given on 17th November, 1953, the discussions with the interested bodies have not yet been concluded, and I am therefore unable to make a statement at present.
§ Mr. ManuelIs the Joint Under-secretary not aware that many of our local authorities, farmers and householders are very disturbed at the lack of activity by the Government in connection with recurring flooding throughout Scotland? Does he not think that the negligence in this matter is deplorable? It is causing a loss of food production; many homes are flooded annually, and great expense is caused to local authorities each year because there is as yet no indication that this problem will be tackled in a realistic fashion.
§ Mr. SnaddenAs the hon. Gentleman knows, there is really no lack of activity on the part of the Government. Nothing can be done in the particular area in which he is interested without further legislation. We are now in consultation with the various interests concerned—farmers, landowners and local authorities—but, until we get agreement on the methods to be employed, it is impossible for us to take the steps required.
§ Mr. ManuelDoes not the Joint Under-Secretary agree that, although I have had this reply very many times, on the last occasion he indicated that something would be done this Session? That promise has now receded. Can he give any indication when legislation is likely to be introduced to deal with this problem?
§ Mr. SnaddenI cannot give any date.