§ Tom BrakeTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what recent discussions he has had with DEFRA and the water companies about the protection of water supplies from chemical and biological attack. [12338]
§ Mr. IngramAll aspects of the UK's resilience to terrorist attack are being reviewed following the events of 11 September. The Ministry of Defence and DEFRA are both involved in that work, and there are well-established arrangements for military assistance to the civil authorities when required. Government responsibilities in relation to the water companies are a matter for DEFRA.