HC Deb 15 July 1987 vol 119 cc532-3W
72. Mr. Heathcoat-Amory

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he is satisfied with the state of beaches in tourist areas.

Mr. Moynihan

My hon. Friend the Member for Bristol, West (Mr. Waldegrave) announced on 30 April (Official Report, column 186) the results of the 1986 survey of bathing water quality. These showed that about 62 per cent. of the 368 waters reported on met the coliform standards set out in the "Bathing Waters" directive of the European Community.

This survey is continuing, and some £70 million a year is being spent to improve coastal bathing water quality.