§ Mr. Simon HughesTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will make a statement on the extent of his programme to monitor the presence of viruses in sewage discharges; and what research is being undertaken to establish any possible health implications resulting from the presence of viruses in sewage discharges.
§ Mr. Heathcoat-AmoryThe monitoring of sewage discharges is a matter for the National Rivers Authority. The Department has commissioned research into the health effects of bathing in sea water, and the results are expected to be available soon.