HC Deb 08 August 1972 vol 842 cc387-8W
Mr. Stainton

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment (1) when, and in what circumstances, the recent pollution of the River Stour with barbasco was first drawn to the attention of his department; when and what steps were taken to identify the source of the pollution; and what steps are in hand to minimise further damage to fish life over this growing area both by direct action and by neutralising chemicals;

(2) what steps he is taking in conjunction with the Essex River Authority to investigate the escape into the River Stour of barbasco from the works of Bush Boake Allen Limited of Long Melford, Suffolk, which is polluting the river at the rate of two miles a day and wiping out fish.

Mr. Eldon Griffiths

As my hon. Friend knows, this is a matter for the Essex River Authority, which took action immediately to identify the source, to mark the course of the pollution as it passed downstream and with the help of anglers to remove a number of fish to safety. I regret to say that many fish were killed. The cause of this pollution was the spillage of about 10 gallons of barbasco, a derris extract used for spraying vegetables; it is fatal to fish even in minute quantities but poses no serious risk to animals or human beings. The pollutant is biodegradable and is likely to be cleansed by natural action in the river without the use of neutralising chemicals. There is no risk to the safety of public water supply.

Further controls on polluting discharges will be proposed to Parliament as soon as opportunity permits. These will include sterner penalties for accidental discharges.

Mr. Stainton

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he has yet received a full report from Messrs. Bush Boake Allen Limited of Long Mel-ford, Suffolk, regarding the pollution of the River Stour by the escape of barbasco from that company's works; and whether he will set in hand a full investigation of the occurrence with a view to the prosecution of this firm.

Mr. Eldon Griffiths

The Essex River Authority has made a full investigation. It is for that authority to decide the appropriate action to take, including a prosecutioin, if it sees fit.