HC Deb 22 March 1989 vol 149 c632W
34. Mr. Riddick

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what steps his Department is taking to ensure that water authorities are penalised for supplying polluted water as drinking water; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Howard

Clause 51 of the Water Bill will make it an offence for a water undertaker to supply water unfit for human consumption. The penalty for an offence may take the form of a fine or imprisonment. Under clause 19 of the Bill my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State will be able to enforce compliance with drinking water quality standards set by regulations made under the Bill.

Forward to