§ Mr. CryerTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what adverse effects have been identified from the use of asbestos pipes for water supplies; what is the total estimated use of such pipes; what is the current estimated cost of replacement; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Moynihan[holding answer 15 March 1989]: There is no evidence of a risk to health from the levels of asbestos found in drinking water in the United Kingdom, including any derived from the use of asbestos cement pipes.
About 10 per cent. of water mains in the United Kingdom are made of asbestos cement. The cost of replacing them is not known.