§ 64. Mr. C. Hughesasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs how many water undertakings in England and Wales are now imposing restrictions upon water supplies.
§ Sir K. JosephWater undertakings do not have to inform my right hon. Friend when they forbid the use of hosepipes. He is, however, aware that some have banned hosepipes and that some have appealed for special care in the use of water. Three undertakings have applied to him this year for orders under the Water Act, 1958, or corresponding powers. Two orders have been confirmed and one rejected.
§ Mr. C. Hughesasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs if he is satisfied that the supply of water for domestic and industrial consumption in England and Wales is adequate to meet all emergencies; and if he will make a statement.
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§ Sir K. JosephIt is not, in my right hon. Friend's view, practicable for water undertakings to guarantee a supply of water which will be fully adequate to all conceivable emergencies, but he is satisfied that the great majority of undertakings are well able to meet all the demands for water likely to be made upon them. In a few cases additional works are needed to ensure that in a dry year foreseeable needs can be met. These works are either in hand or are at an advanced stage of design.