§ Mr. Berminghamasked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he is satisfied with progress on compliance with the terms of EC environment directives within the water industry; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. MoynihanIn general, yes. The United Kingdom makes every effort to comply with European Community directives and our record is a good one, both in terms of the formal implementation of directives' requirements and the quality of water in the environment which is achieved.
However, like other member states, we sometimes have difficulties in implementing or meeting the requirements of particular directives. Such problems, when identified, can usually be resolved either through discussions with the water industry or, where appropriate, with the Commission of the European Communities.