HC Deb 05 May 1959 vol 605 c30W
80. Mr. Ronald Bell

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs when he expects to make his decision on the application of the Colne Valley Sewerage Board to deposit sludge near Chalfont St. Peter, Buckinghamshire; and whether he will direct the attention of the Board to alternative methods of sewage disposal which do not involve the pollution of drinking water and the spoliation of the countryside.

81. Mr. Beswick

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs when, following the public inquiry, he expects to reach a decision on the matter of the disposal of sewage by the Colne Valley Sewerage Board; whether he will make recommendations regarding the improvement of the present state of the River Colne; and to what extent his recommendations will deal with alternative methods of disposal of sewage by the Colne Valley Sewerage Board.

Mr. Bevins

The public inquiry was concluded only a few days ago. The Inspector's report, when it is received, will be given urgent consideration. The only comment I can make at this stage is that the inquiry was not concerned with the state of the River Colne but with the treatment and disposal of sewage sludge.