§ Mr. Liddallasked the Minister of Health whether, in the interests of both national economy and the agricultural industry, any arrangements have been made between the Ministries of Health, and Agriculture, local authorities and scientists, for co-ordinated and co-operative effort and continuous experimentation in the utilisation of sludge and house refuse for land fertilisation; and whether, before approving plans for new or improved sewage schemes by local authorities, consideration is given by his Department to this matter.
§ Miss HorsbrughYes, Sir. Experiments in the use of sewage sludge, composted with various materials, for land fertilisation are being actively continued under the auspices of the Agricultural Research Council in close association with the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries and my own Department. Certain local authorities are also co-operating in these experiments. The adoption of a genefal policy in the matter must await recommendations based on the results of the experiments. In the meantime applications by local680W authorities for the installation of appropriate works are sanctioned by my right hon. and learned Friend if they are recommended by the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries.