§ Mr. Matthew TaylorTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what discussions he has had with the National Rivers Authority regarding the introduction of appropriate water quality objectives for water contact sports; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Baldry[holding answer 1 March 1991]: We have asked the National Rivers Authority to advise the Department about the establishment of the new system of statutory water quality objectives provided for under the Water Act 1989 and discussions on this are continuing. As part of the preparatory work for the new system, consideration is being given to the setting of appropriate standards for the range of uses for which waters are expected to be suitable. The needs of water contact sports will be taken into account in this process.