§ Ms RuddockTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment (1) what alternative courses of action from those detailed in "Water Conservation: Government Action" were considered in any environmental appraisal undertaken by his Department; [248]
(2) if "Water Conservation: Government Action" was (a) subject to, and (b) modified on account of, an environmental appraisal using the guidance contained in "Policy Appraisal and the Environment" produced by his Department; and if he will publish the appraisal; [247]
(3) what procedures have been put in place by his Department to monitor the environmental impacts arising from the implementation of "Water Conservation: Government Action". [249]
§ Mr. Clappison"Policy Appraisal and the Environment" sets out an approach whereby environmental effects can be taken into account in policy development, while recognising that this will vary from case to case depending on the complexity and significance of the impacts. "Water Conservation: Government Action" outlines the Government's policy for England and Wales on the various issues surrounding the conservation of water resources, including the proposed approach to the future method of charging for water. The Government's position is that, before additional resources are developed, existing resources should be used as far as possible, taking into account economic and environmental consideration.
The general policy and the specific proposals were developed following widespread consultation. They are designed to reduce the potential environmental impact of increased demand for water by measures to promote its efficient distribution and use.
120WThe effectiveness of the policy and the specific proposals will be monitored by the Department of the Environment, the Office of Water Services and the National Rivers Authority.