§ Ms WalleyTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what provisions are included in the Building Regulations 1991(a) to ensure that underground drainage systems are resistant to damage by rats and (b) to prevent rats escaping from the sewerage systems; and if he will make a statement. [20987]
§ Mr. ClappisonThe Building Regulations 1991 are cast in functional form, and as such contain no specific guidance on protecting underground drainage systems from rats. However guidance on the construction of drainage systems is provided in the approved document to part H of the Building Regulations, and includes advice on measures to deal with infestation of drains and private sewers by rodents.