§ 21. Mr. Hoosonasked the Secretary of State for Wales what representations he has received on the Government's proposals not to include the Upper Severn Basin under the control of the Welsh Water Resources Authority.
§ Mr. Peter ThomasThe Government's proposals for reorganisation have been widely welcomed. Six district councils in various parts of Wales, the Gwynedd River Authority, the Farmers' Union of Wales and Henaduriaeth Arfon of the Presbyterian Church of Wales have objected to the arrangements for the Upper Severn Basin.
§ Mr. HoosonIs the right hon. and learned Gentleman sufficiently in touch with Wales to know that whereas there has been a general welcome for his proposals, there are reservations about the 838 Upper Severn Basin? Is the right hon. and learned Gentleman aware that people are not satisfied with the present proposals in that a Welsh Water Resources Authority should have the final say on the development of the Upper Severn Basin?
§ Mr. ThomasI agree that reservations have been expressed about the proposals for the Upper Severn Basin. It should be understood that for the first time the interests of the whole of Wales in the management of water resources in the Upper Severn Basin will be given an effective voice by a series of provisions which make sure that no matters of substance affecting the Upper Severn Basin will be decided by the Severn Trent River Authority without consultation with the Welsh National Water Development Authority. Any matters in dispute will have to be settled by Ministers. Should any land be required for new works if will be acquired after the due procedures have been gone through by the Welsh National Water Development Authority. Therefore, it will remain the property of the Welsh People.
§ Sir Elwyn JonesCan we be told more about the Henaduriaeth Arfon whose support the right hon. Gentleman has called in aid?
§ Mr. ThomasIt is the managing body of the Hen Gorff.
§ Mr. HefferMay we have that translated?