§ 41. Sir M. Stoddart-Scottasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government when forms will be ready in order that applications for licences can be made for the abstraction of water under the Water Resources Act, 1963, which came into operation on 1st April, 1964; why there has been delay; and if he is aware that work is being held up and men kept unemployed as no action has been taken by his Department following the passing of the Act.
§ Mr. MellishRiver authorities now have forms available in almost all areas. Any delay has been due to printing difficulties. For reasons explained in reply to letters from the hon. Member, my right hon. Friend does not believe that work has been held up for lack of forms. The 1963 Act came into operation on 1st April this year, not 1964.