§ Mr. Hector Hughesasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he is aware 64W that there is a shortage in the piped water supply in Barbados; and what steps have been taken to implement the report of the geologist, Dr. Senn, last April.
Mr. Creech JonesYes, Sir, I am aware that there is a temporary water shortage, due to the low rainfall in recent years. The working capacity of the pumping station which operates in the underground sheet water area, where there is adequate water, has been expanded to supply reservoirs which serve Bridgetown. Reserve stocks are now being accumulated and it is expected that adequate water will be available within a few weeks at all points of the piped supply. In accordance with Dr. Senn's report, on underground water resources, which is about to be published locally, the hydraulic and electrical engineer on the staff of the Comptroller for Development and Welfare is now framing recommendations for future water policy.