§ Mr. Ian TaylorTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what action he has decided to take in respect of the supply of water unfit for human consumption in Hull in 1989; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. TrippierThe drinking water inspectorate has reported to me on the progress of its investigations into the outbreak of cryptosporidiosis in the Hull area in December 1989 and January 1990. This investigation has inevitably been difficult and lengthy because of gaps in52W scientific knowledge about cryptosporidium, which a research programme funded by the Department is seeking to remedy.
This case has raised a number of new and complex issues, and necessarily continues to involve external advisers as well as the inspectorate. An outbreak control group, comprising representatives of the health authorities, the local authorities, the water company and the Public Health Laboratory Service, was established in the locality during the outbreak and its report was essential to the inspectorate's investigations. The group was not able to complete its report until March 1991. Advice then had to be sought from the Government's Chief Medical Officer and, in view of the possibility of a prosecution, from leading counsel.
The case is being taken forward as quickly as possible and I shall make a further statement as soon as there is further progress to report.