§ Mr. Andrew WelshTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what estimates his Department has of the costs(a) to local authorities and (b) to central Government of bringing Scottish water supplies up to European Community standards; what equipment or capital plant is involved; and what sources of funds are available to complete this work.
§ Lord James Douglas-Hamilton[holding answer 4 December 1989]: Latest estimates from water authorities put the cost of bringing Scottish water supplies fully up to EC standards at approximately £100 million a year on average over a period of up to 15 years. However, authorities will shortly be required to prepare more detailed costed programmes of necessary works. The programmes will involve the construction of new improved water treatement works and the replacement and renovation of much of the distribution system.
It is largely for authorities to determine the sources of funds used within the capital expenditure rules set by Government. Grants for the improvement of rural water supplies are available to water authorities under the rural water supplies and sewerage Acts 1944–70.