HC Deb 06 March 1997 vol 291 cc737-8W
Mr. Boateng

To ask the Secretary of State of Health what machinery exists for the early identification of risks to public health from the contamination of the water supply; and if the Government will review it in the light of the cryptosporidium outbreak in the Three Valleys Water area. [18912]

Mr. Horam

Since privatisation, water companies are required to report to the drinking water inspectorate all incidents in which water quality might be affected. They are further required to report to health and local authorities any event giving rise to a significant risk to health.

Mr. Boateng

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what meetings there have been between his Department, and(a) Thames Water, and (b) representatives of water companies about the increase in the number of incidents of cryptosporidium in the water supply. [18906]

Mr. Horam

None. The number of incidents of cryptosporidium in the water supply reported to the drinking water inspectorate remains at a low level.

Mr. Boateng

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what plans his Department has to meet the health authorities in the areas affected by the most recent outbreak of cryptosporidium in the water supply. [18917]

Mr. Horam

Responsibility for investigation and control of such outbreaks lies with local public health specialists. Officials from the Department have been in close contact with these specialists since the problem came to light and are available to attend meetings of the incident management team should this be considered necessary.