§ 2.35 p.m.
§ THE EARL OF ALBEMARLEMy Lords, I beg to ask the Question which stands in my name on the Order Paper.
§ [The Question was as follows:
§ To ask Her Majesty's Government if they will indicate what methods are being applied to recharge some underground sources of water supply, having regard to the depth to which the water tables have sunk owing to extractions (a) below Nottingham, and (b) below Grimsby—Scunthorpe and London Basin, and further, whether experience in these matters in U.S.A., Holland and Germany does not supply guidance.]
§ THE MINISTER WITHOUT PORTFOLIO (THE EARL OF MUNSTER)My Lords, artificial replenishment of underground water is being successfully practised in the countries mentioned in the Question and elsewhere. The results are being studied here to see whether the methods used are applicable to geological conditions in this country. No large-scale recharge is at present being undertaken here, but information is being collected from certain small-scale operations in various parts of the country. Although the chalk is the formation which has suffered greatest over-development, the Bunter sandstone appears to be the most promising geological formation for recharge purposes. Following an engineering and geological survey, preliminary studies are being made of the practicability of recharge in the Nottingham area. The success of the operation is likely to depend largely on how far a suitable charging water can be obtained.
Quite apart from engineering problems, there are administrative, financial and legal difficulties which need careful examination before any large scheme 174 can be undertaken in this country. A sub-committee of the Central Advisory Water Committee is at present inquiring into the growing demand for water and possible means of meeting the demand. Its findings will no doubt suggest how far it is necessary to pursue this and other special measures for maintaining the country's water stocks.
§ THE EARL OF ALBEMARLE. May I thank the noble Earl for his Answer and for the trouble he has taken. Will he allow me to return to the charge at some future date?
§ THE EARL OF MUNSTERCertainly.