§ Sir J. Hutchisonasked the Secretary of State for Air when, since official records have been kept, there has been a shortage of rainfall similar to that experienced in the 18 months to June of this year.
§ Mr. BirchSince 1870, there have been seven drier 18-month periods in England and Wales and nine in Scotland. If 18-month periods beginning in December only are considered, the figures are three and three.