§ Mr. WilshireTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what steps he has taken to ensure that the provisions of the Water Bill are consistent with European law; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. RidleyThe Government have now reached agreement with the European Commission, following detailed discussions, on all the outstanding points arising from the Water Bill. My noble Friend the Minister for Housing, Environment and Countryside, will shortly table amendments to the Bill which will put beyond doubt that these provisions are fully consistent with European law.
Quite separately, the Commission has recently issued a reasoned opinion to the effect that the United Kingdom does not have legislation in place to give direct effect to the drinking water directive. Regulations incorporating the directive's standards will be made under the Bill and laid before Parliament immediately after Royal Assent. The European Commission has confirmed that such legislation would enable them to close this part of the case.