§ Mr. Hicksasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will introduce amending legislation to the Water Act 1973 in order to exempt launderettes from liability for payment of trade effluent charges; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Denis HowellMy right hon. Friend has no plans to introduce amending legislation at present. The level of charges is a matter for individual water authorities, and is fixed in relation to the cost of reception and treatment of the effluent. My hon. Friend has met representatives of the launderette industry and we are in contact with the National Water Council.