§ Sir Neil MacfarlaneTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what studies his Department has made of methods of desalination both for overseas markets and for the United Kingdom; what research funds have been made available; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Heathcoat-AmoryA study was made by the Water Resources Board and published as "Desalination 1976". This concluded that desalination was not economical in the United Kingdom when other sources could be exploited. My Department has made no further studies and none is planned.
§ Sir Neil MacfarlaneTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will review the possible need for desalination units in the United Kingdom with the water companies and other interested organisations.
§ Mr. Heathcoat-AmoryNo. It is for the private water companies and interested organisations to determine the potential for desalination units.