§ Mr. Greg KnightTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what is the current level of nitrates in water in Derbyshire; and how this compares with the safety limits proposed by the European Community.
§ Mr. MoynihanThe current level of nitrate in drinking water supplies in the Derbyshire area is well below the limit for nitrate of 50 mg per litre set in the EC drinking water directive, except for a small part of south Derbyshire where the level is around 70 mg per litre. About 1,000 people receive this water. However, there is no danger to health and the water is safe to drink. A remedial programme is in hand.