§ 65. Mr. Peter Millsasked the Secretary of State for the Environment, in view of the present reduction in rainfall in many parts of the United Kingdom and the consequent problems, what emergency plans his Department has to help in a serious drought situation.
§ Mr. Denis HowellMy Department is in close touch with the regional water authorities which are responsible for supplying water. Those water authorities worse affected are already initiating action and some have already applied for additional powers under drought orders and had them approved by my right hon. Friend. My Department is also prepared to make available, in appropriate circumstances, water supply equipment from its limited stock of emergency plant.