HC Deb 10 March 1971 vol 813 cc99-100W
9. Mrs. Kellett

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what research he has commissioned into the problems of pollution of the land and sea by non-biodegradable substances; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Eldon Griffiths

My Department's Water Pollution Research Laboratory undertakes research into methods of dealing with all forms of water pollution: the hon. Member may wish to consult their Annual Report for 1969 a copy of which is in the Library. The Laboratories of other Departments and of the Natural Environment Research Council also undertake research into non-degradable substances. We look forward to cooperating with the Royal Commission on Environmental Pollution in studying marine pollution problems.

Mr. Carter

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he intends to introduce legislation in order to reduce pollution in British rivers.

Mr. Peter Walker

The Working Party on Sewage Disposal found existing powers to control river pollution to be as comprehensive in this country as in any other, but recommended a number of changes to make enforcement more effective. I hope to announce shortly the Government's observations on all the main recommendations of the Working Party.