11. Mrs. Slaterasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs what research is being undertaken on the question of treatment of gas liquor before it is poured into rivers or sewers; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. BevinsMuch research and experimental work is being carried out by the Gas Council and the area gas boards, in collaboration with other bodies. Progress is being made and is reported in technical journals. The problem is a complex one and quick results cannot be expected.
Mrs. SlaterHas the Parliamentary Secretary read the Trent River Board's Report for last year, which makes special reference to the more acute position in relation to gas liquor being poured into the river in the Birmingham area, that in the Stoke area there is far too much still being poured into the river and the statement that this is having an adverse effect on the sewerage system of the local authorities? Does that not point to the fact that there is an urgent need for something to be done and for research to be stepped up so that this evil can be done away with?
§ Mr. BevinsI am aware of those statements. Since the nationalisation of the gas industry, gas production has been centralised in bigger units. This has aggravated this problem, which is a very real one in the Potteries. I assure the hon. Lady that research is going on at an increasing tempo and that we shall do all that we can.