LORD STRABOLGIasked His Majesty's Government what measures have been taken to date to deal with the water shortage; and what further action is to be taken.
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§ THE EARL OF MUNSTER (on behalf of VISCOUNT GAGE)The Water Supplies (Exceptional Shortage Orders) Act was passed last month and enables water undertakers to adopt emergency measures by a simplified and speedy procedure. The Minister of Health communicated with water undertakers on the Act, and indicated measures which might be taken where there was serious shortage of supplies. In many areas consumption has been substantially reduced without any hardship, in response to appeals. The Minister has appointed a Standing Conference of men experienced in water supplies the better to keep him informed of conditions and of advisable measures. Con-110WA sultations have been held with representatives of water undertakers who may be in difficulties, with the object of ascertaining the present position and prospects of devising emergency measures, if the need should arise. The position of large undertakers is generally good. The Minister is also in touch with the situation in rural districts which are visited by inspectors of the Ministry where necessary. He is communicating with each rural district council, asking for statements as to the measures proposed in view of the local position and suggesting methods of dealing with any scarcity.
House adjourned at twenty-seven minutes past seven o'clock.