HC Deb 08 December 1982 vol 33 c557W
64. Mr. Ogden

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment, what further proposals he now has for the improvement of British rivers.

Mr. Heseltine

River quality management is a matter for the regional water authorities to consider in the light of their various functions and responsibilities and their own priorities within Government guidelines.

Improvements are already proceeding to most rivers. In particular, on 22 November 1982 I announced consultation on a fresh and major initiative for the Mersey catchment area.

In addition, the full implementation of part II of the Control of Pollution Act 1974 will provide additional powers of control over tidal rivers.