§ Mr. CousinsTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what studies he has made of the effect on surface water courses, pollution of water courses and water supplies and the raising of the water table consequent on the cessation of minewater pumping; and if he will ensure that no pumping will cease until the results of such studies are known.
§ Mr. Maclean[holding answer 2 February 1993]: None. It is for British Coal and the National Rivers Authority, in the first place, to assess the environmental effects of stopping minewater pumping and what steps may need to be taken to minimise any adverse impact. I understand that arrangements have been made between British Coal and the National Rivers Authority for effective liaison over any proposed closures.