§ Mr. Rookerasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what representations he has received from local authorities in the West Midlands about problems relating to the allocation of funds for the capital programme of the Severn-Trent Water Authority; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Denis HowellRepresentations have been received from five local authorities in the West Midlands about the ability of the Severn-Trent Water Authority to finance sewerage provision for new housing development from its restricted capital programme. My right hon. Friend has now determined the allocation between the water authorities, including the Severn-Trent Water Authority, of that part of this year's water services programme which had been held in reserve. I hope that this further allocation, which has been made primarily on the basis of the water authorities' estimates of their requirements in relation to new housing, will help in solving the most pressing problems in the area of the Severn-Trent Water Authority.