HC Deb 26 March 1968 vol 761 cc229-30W
33. Mr. Wall

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government what advice he has given to local authorities about their responsibilities for the disposal of trade effluent.

Mr. Greenwood

I am sending the hon. Member copies of circulars sent to local authorities in 1961, explaining the effects of the relevant legislation passed in that year, and in 1967, urging them to consult undertakings if the treatment of their wastes is likely to affect the design of new sewage works or extensions.

34. Mr. Wall

asked the Minister of [-lousing and Local Government what is the total cost of grants given to industry for the disposal of trade effluent; and to what extent industry is disposing of its own effluent as opposed to using facilities provided by local authorities.

Mr. Greenwood

The first part of the Question is a matter for my right hon. Friend the President of the Board of Trade.

As regards the second part, the diverse qualities of trade wastes, ranging from warm, clean water to highly polluting substances, make a simple comparison of quantities meaningless and I regret that the information needed for a proper comparison could not be obtained and presented without disproportionate expense.