§ Mr. Ellis Smithasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs if he will ask for reports on the effects of pollution of the Manchester Ship Canal from the Salford, Eccles, Stretford, Irlam, Urmston, and Warrington Rural District Councils and other authorities; if he will forward copies to all hon. Members who represent these areas; if he will publish in the OFFICIAL REPORT his conclusions on the reports; and what action he proposes to take.
§ Sir K. JosephAs their annual reports show, the river board are well aware of conditions in the Canal and are making continued efforts to have them remedied: in which they have the co-operation of the local authorities. I do not think there would be advantage in calling for special reports. A great deal of work to improve the quality of effluents draining into the Canal has been approved and is in hand.
§ Mr. Ellis Smithasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs if he has considered the minutes and report of the 85W meeting of representatives of local and other authorities held in the Manchester Town Hall on 30th June, 1960 at which his Department was represented; what conclusions he has reached; and what urgent action will be taken on the pollution of the Manchester Ship Canal, and the air pollution created by the increasingly offensive smells from the Ship Canal.
§ Sir K. JosephMy right hon. Friend has seen a report of this meeting. It does not appear to add to the information already available about pollution of the Ship Canal. The remedial action required is primarily for the local authorities and industrial interests in consultation with the river board.