§ Mr. Haywardasked the Secretary of State for the Environment (1) what statistical information he obtains from water authorities about the levels of impounded water stocks in each region; and how often such information is updated; (2) if any restrictions are currently in operation in any part of England and Wales on the use of water; (3) what information he has as to which water authorities have impounded water stocks which are currently 10 per cent. below the equivalent levels for 1983.
§ Mr. WaldegraveDetailed statistical information on impounded water stocks is not held centrally but I have asked the Water Authorities Association to report to me each winter and spring and at intervals during each summer as shown to be necessary upon the water situation generally. Its latest report dated 25 April indicates that as winter rain was generally at or above normal, reservoir and groundwater resources in England and Wales are in good shape except for some small reservoirs in the north-west with lower than normal levels. The water authority there is drawing on alternative supplies. I am not aware of any restrictions applying to public water supplies, though I am advised that some local distribution problems have been encountered in the south-west, where demand is 15 to 20 per cent. up on average.