§ Mr. AshdownTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food how long he estimates the Somerset wetlands will continue to qualify as an environmentally sensitive area at current rates of drying out; and whether he will facilitate the introduction of a system of water table management aimed at preserving the levels, and moors, wetland status.
§ Mr. GummerMy officials have met representatives from Wessex water authority, the NCC and RSPB to discuss their recent report on declining water levels and breeding wading bird numbers in the Somerset levels and moors. As a result, it has been agreed that a joint technical assessment of the current situation will be carried out in consultation with IDBs, environmental and farming interests. Proposals for remedial action will be examined if they are found to be necessary.