§ 64. Mr. F. Beswickasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs if, in view of the fact that the River Colne between Rickmansworth and Denham, which is now largely sewage, is facilitating the breeding of the chironomus fly at an unusually rapid rate, that the river surface is almost covered with the flies, and that swarms arc creating a serious nuisance even in March. he will direct the appropriate authorities to carry out an emergency spraying operation before the warmer weather further aggravates this problem.
§ Mr. BevinsMy right hon. Friend has no power to direct spraying operations or any other remedial action. The local authorities are, I understand aware of the problem; but they will also be aware of the danger that spraying might kill fish.
§ Mr. BeswickMay I tell the hon. Gentleman that I am well aware that local authorities know of this problem, because they have called my attention to it? Does he appreciate that the problem is so grave that one local authority alone cannot deal with it? Is there no co-ordinating authority, such as his own Department, which could provide assistance so that this matter may be tackled?
§ Mr. BevinsI can only repeat that my right hon. Friend has no power to direct local authorities to take this action. At the same time he is prepared to help with advice if that is required by local authorities.