§ 44. Sir Bernard Braineasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if, in 101W order to safeguard public health, he will inquire into the circumstances which have caused land at Ropers and Trumpions Farm, Barling, Essex, to become polluted with toxic materials; and what consultations he has had with the Essex River Authority and the public health authority on this subject.
§ Mr. Eldon GriffithsThis land, except for the part which adjoins the River Roach, has been used by Southend Corporation for many years for disposal of sewage sludge by trenching. Until recently, it has been farmed, but the rising content of heavy metals in the soil is causing concern. The only crops now being grown are for test purposes. My Department's medical advisers and the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food are assisting the public health authority in carrying out tests. I understand from the Essex River Authority that the river has not been affected. The cottages on the land are vacant and will not be occupied until a conclusion is reached following the result of the tests.