asked the Lord President of the Council whether he will refer to the appropriate Government research organisation the desirability of making an early and effective inquiry into the technological causes of land subsidence in Cheshire resulting from the pumping of brine, with a view to applying up-to-date and scientific knowledge in the remedying of this serious problem.

A certain amount is already known about the causes of subsidence due to pumping of brine. I do not consider that any useful purpose would be served by initiating a special inquiry at this time since the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research is already carrying out such investigations into the geology of this area as their resources permit.

Is not the question of the effect of controlled and wild brine pumping on land subsidence of the most urgent national interest; and is the Minister aware that there is wide disagreement on this effect, even among the most expert geologists?

I would not be a bit surprised. As to the importance of the matter I can assure the hon. and gallant Gentleman that we recognise the importance of it and that we are doing all that we can in the matter.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that cold brine pumping causes pillars and that some eminent persons have said that these may well collapse and cause disaster on a major scale?

In that case, I am sure that that is a factor that will be taken into consideration.