HC Deb 09 July 1957 vol 573 cc176-7
10. Mr. Chetwynd

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government what report he has received from his alkali inspector as to the source of the smell affecting Stockton-on-Tees; and what action has been taken to end this nuisance.

Mr. H. Brooke

The probable cause of the very bad smell at the end of May was discovered and dealt with. The sources of the remaining smells have not yet been established with certainty, but intensive efforts are being made to solve the problems by all concerned, including the medical officers of the local authorities and my Alkali Inspectorate.

Mr. Chetwynd

Is the Minister aware of the conference of the eight local authorities and the hospital authorities who at the end of June were asking for very strong measures to be taken to eradicate the smell and who were asking for an alkali inspector to be stationed permanently in the area where the smell has been found? Is not that the best way to deal with the problem?

Mr. Brooke

I have heard of the conference, but I am bound to say that I have not yet received any official approach from the local authorities as a result of it.