asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware of the serious position of many upland water supply authorities brought about by unusually high water demands during the present drought; that a complete revision of the quantities of compensation water now delivered by those authorities is the only means of the immediate alleviation of the position; and if he will consider reviewing the whole problem of compensation water.

I am aware that the water in storage in several areas is becoming very low and I shall be ready to consider any applications that may be made to me for temporary removal of restrictions on the quantities of water that can be put into supply. I am, however, precluded by the Water Act, 1945, from making orders for the permanent revision of compensation water provisions.