HC Deb 20 October 1971 vol 823 cc714-5
30. Mrs. Kellett-Bowman

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what investigations have been made into the commercial possibilities of converting sewage into compost for agricultural purposes.

Mr. Peter Walker

The Working Party on Sewage Disposal has suggested that local authorities should investigate and embark on more positive marketing methods for sludge as a fertiliser. I will encourage them to do this.

Mrs. Kellett-Bowman

I am delighted. Will my right hon. Friend accept my thanks for that very positive reply and accept also that with the trend towards continuous cereal cropping that has grown up in many parts of the country, with the consequent loss of humus, he can kill three birds with one stone by encouraging good farming, healthy living and the useful disposal of such sludge?

Mr. Walker

I shall certainly endeavour to kill as many birds as possible.

Mr. Dalyell

Does "encouragement" mean financial encouragement?

Mr. Walker

Probably not.