§ Mr. Templeasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government whether he is satisfied with the operation of the principle of minimum acceptable flows laid down in the Water Resources Act, 1963; when he proposes a review of these procedures; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. K. RobinsonThe underlying principle of a minimum acceptable flow is a sound one, but its application in appropriate cases is being impeded by the problem that the relevant sections of the Act appear to preclude the fixing of flows which vary with the time of the year in the light of seasonal requirements. My right hon. Friend is at present considering suggestions for amending legislation on these and other matters; any resulting proposals will be the subject of consultation with interested bodies.
§ Mr. Templeasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government how many minimum acceptable flows for rivers in England and Wales have been specified under the Water Resources Act, 1963.
§ Mr. K. RobinsonNo such flows have yet been formally determined.