HC Deb 23 March 1983 vol 39 cc848-9
4. Mr. Teddy Taylor

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he is satisfied with the present procedures for monitoring nitrate levels in public water supplies; and if he will make a statement.

The Under-Secretary of State for the Environment (Mr. Giles Shaw)

Water undertakers regularly monitor the level of nitrates in public water supplies and there are effective arrangements to inform local public health authorities where recommended levels are exceeded, so that any necessary action can be taken.

These levels are based on worldwide evidence, and are recommended by the World Health Organisation. Provided they are observed we see no grounds for concern over the effects on health of nitrates in water supplies. I am reminding regional water authorities of their responsibilities in this matter.

Mr. Taylor

As nitrate pollution is increasing and broke through the 50mg per litre level twice in Essex last year, is there not a case for placing some restriction on the extravagant use of nitrates by farmers in the same way as industrialists are subject to severe restraints to ensure that they do not pollute water supplies? Should not my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State show his concern by asking water boards to report to him when excess levels are created?

Mr. Shaw

I accept the point behind my hon. Friend's question. I reiterate that I am concerned about the increase of any pollutant, but he will be aware that treatment for nitrates is carried out which enables both potable water and high agricultural production to be maintained. That must be our objective.

Mr. Pavitt

In addition to nitrate content, has the Minister seen surveys of mercury content? Is he aware that more than 1 million people are using National Health Service hearing aid batteries that contain mercury? What is the Minister doing to ensure that we are not polluted by that?

Mr. Shaw

I am well aware that there are pollutants from batteries. That is a matter that county and refuse disposal authorities consider carefully. If the hon. Gentleman knows of a particular case, I shall be glad to look into it.

Mr. Jim Spicer

Is my hon. Friend aware that Dorset spring water is now available in the House. The level of nitrates in that water can go from nil up to 20–30 mg without damage to health because that is well within the permitted level? Is it not nonsensical that many people are scaremongering when there is no need for them to do so?

Mr. Teddy Taylor

Rubbish.

Mr. Shaw

I welcome the intervention of my hon. Friend the Member for Dorset, West (Mr. Spicer). It is true that at present levels there is no ground for concern whatever. The nitrate content of water supplies varies substantially from one part of the year to another.

Dr. David Clark

Does the Minister realise that almost everyone who has studied the problem will regard his reply as somewhat complacent in view of the links between nitrosamines and cancer? Does he not understand that nitrates in drinking water present a potential medium-term serious threat to public health? What plans has he to deal with that? Has he considered the possibility of putting a tax on nitrogenous fertiliser?

Mr. Shaw

I am well aware of the anxiety that has been expressed. The best way to deal with it is to invite research. That, I am glad to say, is being done by the Medical Research Council, which has produced four studies into the problem.

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