§ Mr. R. Daviesasked the Minister of Health to what extent the inadequate supply of water during the present drought in some areas is the result of the failure of the water authorities to employ proper qualified and experienced engineers; and if he will call the attention of those authorities to this problem.
§ Mr. WillinkThe present shortage of water in some areas is due primarily to the lack of seasonal rainfall. I should hesitate to attribute it to the cause suggested, though some water undertakers are undoubtedly operating under considerable handicaps, due in part to the2184W heavy demands on skilled personnel for the war effort. I have recently issued appropriate advice to water undertakers and have instructed my Regional Engineers to give all possible assistance in areas affected.