Quarries (Hansard, 16 October 2003)

§ Miss McIntosh
To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what assessment she has made of the implications of the new licensing arrangements on long-term investment and job security at quarries in the Vale of York. [132269]

§ Mr. Morley
There has not been a specific assessment on the new licensing arrangements on long-term investment and job security at quarries in the Vale of York.
The Environment Agency has a duty to consider social and economic, as well as environmental aspects of sustainable development in its licensing policies. As part of the Environment Agency's assessment of any new licence application, it will take into account any relevant considerations. Quarry and mine operators will have the same opportunities as other abstractors to submit a business case to the Environment Agency in support of their licence applications, which can address any social or economic issues including long-term investment needs and effects on employment.
304W

§ Miss McIntosh
To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs if she will take steps to allow(a) a quarrying abstraction licence to be tied to the life of the planning permission for a quarry and (b) a right of appeal and compensation where a licence is refused or curtailed. [131977]

§ Mr. Morley
It is not appropriate for the length of abstraction licences to be tied to the life of planning permissions, as consideration of each address very different issues. The Environment Agency will determine the length of an abstraction licence on a case-by-case basis, using guidance that it has developed and taking into account relevant considerations.
If a licence application is refused or curtailed, there is a right of appeal to the Secretary of State under the Water Resources Act 1991.
If a licence is varied or revoked during its term, there are provisions under the Water Resources Act 1991 to pay compensation for any loss or damage.
In addition, the Water Bill provides that there can be compensation for loss or damage where a licence cannot be granted to any previously exempt abstraction, such as quarry dewatering, when it becomes subject to licensing.