§ Mr. Gareth WardellTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales to what extent the new regulations for classifying the quality of rivers will specify requirements as to the substances that are to be present or absent from the water, and the concentration of such substances, for the purpose of ensuring the conditions needed for the survival of certain aquatic plant and invertebrate communities.
§ Mr. GristRegulations for classifying the quality of rivers have not yet been prepared. We will be consulting widely on proposals for possible revisions to the classification systems later in the spring. This represents the first stage in developing new systems of classification for rivers and estuaries which can, in due course, be embodied in regulations. I will arrange for the hon. Gentleman to receive a copy of the consultation paper when it is issued.