HC Deb 19 July 1962 vol 663 cc603-4
2. Mr. Hale

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs whether he is aware that seven Oldham children have been drowned in recent years in neglected standing waters adjacent to abandoned mills; and what steps he proposes to take to enable the focal corporation to deal with these dangers.

The Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs (Sir Keith Joseph)

I know that there have been fatal accidents in these places. The Oldham Corporation obtained powers in 1960 to require the fencing of dangerous mill lodges, and there are powers in the Highways Act, 1959, under which local authorities can require the fencing of dangerous places adjoining streets. These powers should be sufficient to enable the Oldham Corporation to deal with the situation.

Mr. Hale

While congratulating the right hon. Gentleman on this first appearance at Question Time in his new capacity, may I say that, although Oldham has limited and thoroughly inadequate powers under its local Act, the adjoining urban district of Chadderton possesses none at all? This is a grave problem which has resulted in loss of life, but as the right hon. Gentleman, with his customary courtesy, has offered to discuss the matter with me, I will avail myself of that privilege.

Sir K. Joseph

I am grateful to the hon. Member. All local authorities share some of these powers under the Highways Act, 1959.