Mr. John D. TaylorTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland on what basis tests are carried out to establish the level of pollution in the sea off the Northern Irish coast; whether he seeks the opinion of independent monitoring organisations; and if he will make a statement about the level of pollution in the water around the coast of Northern Ireland.
§ Mr. Needham[holding answer 19 October 1988]: Tests to assess the level of pollution in the sea off the Northern Irish coast are carried out on the basis of requirements set out in the relevant national legislation, EC directives and international conventions and for the purpose of public reassurance. The opinion of independent monitoring organisations is not sought. The tests have shown that the water around the coast of Northern Ireland is generally of good quality.