HC Deb 07 July 1960 vol 626 c668
4. Mr. B. Harrison

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what research is being carried out in Colonial Territories on saltwater conversion.

Mr. Iain Macleod

I am aware of no organised research work in the Colonial Territories directed to the demineralisation of saltwater. The Tropical Products Institute of the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research is conducting investigations on behalf of Colonial Territories towards the development of new designs of solar stills. The Institute is also in touch with developments elsewhere in saltwater conversion in order to be able to advise Colonial Governments.

Mr. Harrison

In view of the tremendous possibilities of saltwater conversion in some of the more arid parts of the Colonial Empire, will my right hon. Friend keep in touch with the commercial work which is going on in the United States on this subject at the present time?

Mr. Macleod

I know that there is work going on in the United States, and I think that the Tropical Products Institute—indeed, I am sure it is—is in touch with it.