§ 6. Mr. Juddasked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he will make a statement on the measures being taken by his Department to prevent further pollution of the Solent.
§ The Secretary of State for the Environment (Mr. Peter Walker)This is primarily a matter for the two river authorities concerned. The hon. Member may, however, like to know that the Royal Commission on Environmental Pollution is proposing to visit the Southampton Waiter area shortly in connection with its general inquiry into the problems of pollution in tidal waters, estuaries and inshore seas.
§ Mr. JuddI wish the commission a happy visit, but is the right hon. Gentleman aware that this fine stretch of water is rapidly in danger of becoming an open cess tank polluted by oil, chemicals, sewage, plastic cups and worse? Does he not agree that it is impossible for local authorities acting individually to overcome this problem, and will he not give a lead in the interests of Southampton, Portsmouth, South Hampshire, the Isle of Wight and holidaymakers?
§ Mr. WalkerAs the hon. Gentleman will know, Hampshire County Council and the district councils concerned are considering a main drainage scheme for the central part of South Hampshire. As a result of the Government's announcement of substantially increased capital investment in sewerage, areas like this will be helped.