§ Mr. Teddy Taylorasked the Secretary of State for the Environment how many reports were made to health officials by water undertakings to indicate nitrate levels in public water supplies over 50 mg; and what were the comparable figures in each of the previous three years.
§ Mr. John PattenWater authorities and companies notify health authorities whenever nitrate levels in a public water supply exceed 50 mg per litre. During the first six months of 1985, 70 supplies exceeded 50 mg nitrate per litre at some time, in 1984, 81 supplies and in 1983, 82 supplies. I do not have comparable information for earlier years.
§ Mr. Teddy Taylorasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what steps he is taking to reduce nitrate levels in public water supplies.
§ Mr. John PattenNo public water supply is allowed to contain nitrate levels which the Government's medical advisers consider to be a danger to public health. As a result of my Department's recent examination of applications for derogations from the nitrate standard of the EC drinking water directive, concentrations in seven supplies have been or are being reduced. A group of experts will shortly be reporting to Ministers on the scope for limiting nitrate concentrations in water sources and supplies in the longer term.