HC Deb 23 June 1959 vol 607 c1020
38. Mr. Oliver

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs what progress is being made to rid United Kingdom coastal waters of sewage pollution.

Mr. Bevins

Many schemes have been carried out by coastal authorities since 1945 for the construction of new or extended sewage outfalls or for the provision of treatment works. Other schemes are in preparation and each year brings new ones forward.

Mr. Oliver

How many schemes are in progress? Can the hon. Gentleman also say whether more coastal towns are finding it unnecessary now to discharge sewage into the sea?

Mr. Bevins

The House had an Adjournment debate on this subject last night. I then said that over 100 coastal authorities have carried out or are proposing to carry out about 160 outfall or sewage treatment schemes. This will cost altogether about £20 million. I assure the hon. and learned Gentleman that we are making very real progress.

Mr. Blenkinsop

Is the hon. Gentleman giving further consideration to the special problems of the Tyne and the coastal areas there after the Adjournment debate last night?

Mr. Bevins

Yes. The problems of the Tyne are always in the mind of my right hon. Friend. We shall not forget it.