§ Mr. ColvinTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what further action his Department is taking to restrict nitrate levels in water; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. GummerMy Department has well-established programmes of research, publicity and advice aimed at encouraging the farming industry to adopt practices which limit the scope for nitrate leaching into water resources. In addition, we have recently launched a campaign in association with other interested organisations to raise awareness among farmers of how they can help to reduce the problem, particularly in areas where the levels of nitrate in the public water supply are significant.