§ Sir G. Foxasked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that in many rural districts the local authorities have been unable to make satisfactory arrangements for the collection of refuse owing to the shortage of labour; and whether, in view of the fact that the man-power position is easier now than it was a few months ago, he will arrange for more labour to be made available to local authorities for this purpose.
§ Mr. ButlerNo, Sir, I am not aware of widespread or acute difficulties in refuse collection in rural areas owing to labour shortage. If my hon. and gallant Friend will furnish details of such cases I will have immediate inquiries made. I must, however, point out that the man-power position in most parts of the country is by no means easier to-day than it was a few months ago.
§ Sir G. Foxasked the Minister of Health whether, in view of the improved position with regard to labour and transport, he will take steps, in the near future, to cause local authorities to carry out their obligations under the Public Health Acts in the matter of refuse collection, particularly in rural districts.
§ Mr. WillinkI have no reason to think that local authorities are not doing what is possible, subject to the continuing limitations on labour and material imposed by urgent national demands, or that they are not anxious to improve this service as and when these limitations become less stringent.
§ Sir G. Foxasked the Minister of Health by what authority the Henley Rural District Council include in their demand notes for rates a charge for the collection of refuse of 3.18of a penny of the total demand in those areas of their rural district to which they have given notice that they do not intend to collect the refuse.
§ Mr. WillinkThe council is required to make such general rates as will be sufficient to provide for the total estimated1794W expenditure during the rating period. The rate can be recovered in full notwithstanding that any particular service is not provided throughout the whole of the district.