§ Mrs. Ann TaylorTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment whether a decision has been made as to the type of sewage disposal intended for the Torridge estuary.
§ Mr. TrippierI understand that a decision has not yet been made. South West Water Services Ltd. has carried out intensive environmental studies over the past three years in order to develop a comprehensive water quality plan for the Taw/Torridge estuary and to assess the long-term options for improved sewage disposal arrangements. Under the provisions of the Water Act 1989, any such improvement plans and related discharge applications will require the approval and formal consent of the National Rivers Authority. This is a matter, therefore, for South West Water and the NRA.