HC Deb 04 February 1980 vol 978 cc35-6W
Mr. Litherland

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will make a statement regarding the revitalisation of the main drainage system in the city of Manchester; and if he will be prepared to make additional funds available so that surface and environmental improvements do not take place over a worn-out sewerage and water supply network.

Mr. Fox

No. Maintenance and renewal programmes for public sewers in Manchester are matters to be dealt with by the North-West water authority in consultation with its agents, the city council.

Expenditure by regional water authorities is limited by national economic circumstances. However, when deciding the capital allocations for the nine English authorities, the special circumstances of the North-West water authority are taken into consideration.