§ Mr. D. GRENFELLasked the Minister of Health whether he has any statement to make on the present position of the water supply?
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Sir H. YOUNGThe average rainfall for September was above the normal, but October has been dry, particularly in the Midlands and the South. Returns received from water undertakers show that the position generally is better than it was in the summer, and that, where shortage exists or is threatened, remedial measures have been taken by providing additional supplies, or by economies in consumption. Water undertakers generally have the situation in hand, provided that, where necessary, consumers continue to co-operate by reasonable economies in the use of water. There has been no serious curtailment of supplies in urban areas except in a very few instances. In rural areas, the primary need for permanent supplies is being met with the help of the Government grant. A large number of schemes have already been passed for grant, and authorities should expedite any schemes which they propose to put forward.