§ Mr. ThurnhamTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment how many instances of excessive sewage discharge into Bradshaw brook, in the North West water authority area, have been recorded during periods of wet weather, in each of the last five years.
§ Mr. Heathcoat-AmoryNo records are held of the frequency of operation of storm sewer overflows which primarily act as emergency outlets during periods of heavy rainfall. We have recently brought many of these overflows under the pollution control system for the first time, thereby ensuring that planned programmes of improve-ments will be carried out where necessary. I understand that North West Water Limited is undertaking a major resewerage scheme which should alleviate problems associated with unsatisfactory overflows into the lower Bradshaw brook at Bolton.