§ 53. Mr. Wiggasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether his attention has been called to a statement made at an inquest held on Monday, 13th June, at Wollescote, that a static water basin in Balds Lane, Lye, Stourbridge, could not be removed without his approval because it was scheduled for possible war-time use; and whether the Worcestershire County Council has asked for permission for the basin to be removed, in view of the fact that four children have lost their lives by drowning in it.
§ Mr. R. A. ButlerI am informed that water is kept in this basin primarily for peace-time use, since there is a shortage of water for fire-fighting in the area. The basin would also have a potential war-time value. It is for the fire authority to decide whether the basin should be retained, and I understand that it will consider the matter again tomorrow.