§ Mr. PikeTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what plans the National Rivers Authority has to increase public access to water courses. [15156]
§ Mr. ClappisonThe National Rivers Authority has a general duty to promote the use of inland and coastal waters and associated land for recreation, and must ensure that its own water or associated land is made available in the best manner for recreational purposes. The Government's code of practice on conservation, access and recreation gives guidance to the NRA and the water and sewerage companies on the exercise of their environmental and recreational duties. Details of the NRA's activities in these areas are contained in its annual report on conservation, access and recreation.