§ Mr. Dalyellasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what is his estimate of the sum needed per annum on maintaining the present (a) sewerage and (b) water system without improvement; and how much is actually being spent.
§ Mr. Giles ShawIt is for the water authorities to estimate expenditure needs and to provide for the appropriate amounts in their plans. Revenue expenditure on repair and maintenance of sewers in 1981–82 was about £50 million but no similar figure for repair and maintenance of the water system is available. Capital expenditure on sewerage in the same year was £191 million and on water supply was £194 million but both these figures include expenditure to extend and improve these systems.
§ Mr. Dalyellasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will undertake a national study of the demands on water supply and sewerage in rural areas as a result of increasing population and new development.
§ Mr. Giles ShawNo. It is for each water authority to take account of these, and other, factors in formulating its expenditure plans for its area.