§ 4. Mr. Woodburnasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what progress is being made with the prevention of pollution in the River Forth and estuary; and whether he will take steps to ensure that pollution will not be perpetuated because of objections from offenders which they are unable to substantiate.
§ Mr. MaclayThe question of extending the provisions of the Rivers (Prevention of Pollution) (Scotland) Act, 1951, to the tidal waters of the river will be the subject of a public inquiry early in the new year, at which objections to the draft Order, which I have published for the purpose will be heard.
§ Mr. WoodburnIs the Secretary of State aware that there have been objections to participating in this scheme from chambers of commerce and, I understand, from the Federation of British Industries? Are the Government taking any steps to ensure that if it is an economic obstacle that is holding back these people from cooperating measures will be taken for the Government to participate to ensure that these rivers and estuaries are cleaned up?
§ Mr. MaclayWe have been doing our best to secure agreement in this matter. I must, however, carry out the procedure laid down in the Act, and I could not say anything in advance of the procedure taking its course.