§ Mr. Chris Smithasked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he intends to include provision for investment in sewerage in any legislative or administrative measures for the privatisation of the water industry.
§ Mr. John PattenThe possible privatisation of the water authorities is under active consideration. An announcement will be made in due course. Whatever is decided will provide for the continuing effectiveness of the sewerage system.
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§ Mr. Chris Smithasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what action he has taken to seek to ensure that the sewer systems in inner city areas are adequate to withstand the risk of flooding by sewage; what further measures are planned; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. John PattenResponsibility for sewer systems in inner city areas, as elsewhere, rests with water authorities. Provision for necessary work on such systems is included in the water authorities' plans and is taken into account in the Government's public expenditure decisions. Capital expenditure on sewerage by the water authorities in England and Wales in 1986–87 is expected to reach about £290 million, compared with £275 million in the current year out of total sums for capital expenditure of over £900 million in 1986–87 and about £820 million in the current year.