HC Deb 15 November 1967 vol 754 cc139-40W
116. Mr. Barnett

asked the Minister of Public Building and Works what plans he has for sewage disposal on Aldabra Atoll, without contaminating the lagoon: and what cost estimate he has made.

Mr. Mellish

Sewage disposal would be mainly by pipe into the open sea, but for buildings separate from the main camp septic tanks and soakaways would be used. I am satisfied that the lagoon would not be contaminated. The cost of this work is not separately identifiable within the overall estimate.

117. Mr. Dobson

asked the Minister of Public Building and Works what plans he has for getting transport and quarrying equipment ashore at Aldabra Atoll; and what contingency plans he has for the provision of spare parts, and consequent delay.

Mr. Mellish

In the earlier stages of construction, machinery and equipment would be off loaded from pontoons or other beach landing craft. Interim wharfage facilities would be available later. The provision of spare parts would be an integral part of the planning.

Mr. Hamling

asked the Minister of Public Building and Works what study he has made of reliable fresh water supplies on Aldabra Atoll.

Mr. Mellish

Surveys show that no substantial source of fresh water exists.

Fresh water would be provided by distillation of sea water and would be supplemented by rainwater catchment.