HC Deb 06 May 1987 vol 115 cc449-50W
22. Mr. Ron Davies

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment how many water catchment areas in Britain are presently exempt from the terms of the European Commission water quality directive.

Mr. Waldegrave

We have granted derogations under article 9 of the drinking water directive in respect of 195 public water supply zones in England. We have also applied to the European Community Commission for an extended period for compliance under article 20 in respect of 87 water supply zones.

39. Mr. Sean Hughes

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment when he will next be meeting his European counterparts to discuss the problems of water pollution and nitrate contamination.

Mr. Waldegrave

I shall attend the next Environment Council on 21 May, at which we expect at least one proposal relating to the discharge of dangerous substances to water —concerning the discharge of aldrin, dieldrin and endrin—to be on the agenda.

46. Mr. Gareth Wardell

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment when he next intends meeting representatives of the Nature Conservancy Council to discuss water pollution problems; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Waldegrave

My right hon. Friend has no plans at present to meet representatives of the Nature Conservancy Council to discuss water pollution problems. If the hon. Member has a particular problem in mind and will let me have the details, I will look into it.

51. Dr. Roger Thomas

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what is his current policy towards water quality problems posed by agricultural pollution.

Mr. Waldegrave

The Department's general policy on the control of river pollution, including agricultural pollution, is to restore and maintain the wholesomeness of our rivers. Part II of the Control of Pollution Act 1974 provides water authorities with a comprehensive system of controls, including the power to prosecute in appropriate cases. While the existing framework of controls is generally considered to be adequate, the Department is considering whether there is a need to introduce regulations which extend and strengthen the existing powers of water authorities in order to reinforce the voluntary efforts currently being made to combat agricultural pollution.