HC Deb 27 February 1975 vol 887 cc257-8W
Mr. Kilroy-Silk

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will seek to amend the Water Act 1973 so that the responsibility for the maintenance of watercourses used predominantly for reception of septic tank effluent, or which form part of a recognised surface water sewerage system, and from which there would be a potential health hazard, would be assumed by the water authorities.

Mr. Denis Howell

Identifying and dealing with public health risks is well established as an appropriate function of local authorities and this principle was preserved in the reorganisation last year of local government and water services. I have seen no evidence to suggest that any change of responsibility would be desirable in relation to public health risks from watercourses.