§ Mr. Staintonasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he is satisfied with the operation of the Water Acts in the light of summer bans on hoses as operated by water authorities such as the Anglian Water Authority.
§ Mr. Denis HowellYes. Water authorities are gradually developing their water resources but, where these are being overdrawn, the authorities must use their discretion to conserve supplies. They can prohibit or restrict the use of hose-pipes for watering gardens and washing private cars without reference to my right 281W hon. Friend the Secretary of State by using their powers under the Water Act 1945. They can also seek wider powers available under the Drought Act 1976 but these require my right hon. Friend's approval.