§ Dr. Summerskillasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he is aware that certain water authorities, including the Metropolitan Water Board, continue their previous practice of cutting off the water supplies of peoples in arrear with their rates; and whether, in view of the dangers from air-raids involved, not only to those directly concerned, but also to their neighbours, he will effect the discontinuance of this practice.
§ Mr. H. MorrisonI realise the need for securing adequate supplies of water for fighting fires in residential districts, but I do not think that the method suggested is practicable or would meet the end in view. An arrangement has, however, been made by which local authorities can instal small water containers in the poorer districts where the houses are dependent entirely upon the mains. Expenditure so incurred by local authorities ranks for grant.