asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he is aware that rural water supplies to the parishes of Bright-ling and Dallington are matters of urgency; and whether he can now give a decision to the application made by the Heathfield and District Water Company, in June and July, 1950, for a grant in respect of this scheme.

I am aware of the needs of agriculture for improved water supplies in this area. Consideration of grant by my Department and the Ministry of Local Government and Planning is, however, awaiting a settlement of the financial arrangements as between the water company and the two rural district councils concerned.