HC Deb 20 November 1991 vol 199 cc159-60W
Mr. Morgan

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what guidelines govern the consultations on water quality, water use and flood prevention strategies to be incorporated in environmental impact assessments to accompany private and hybrid bills; and if consultations require obligatory reference to the National Rivers Authority.

Mr. Yeo

An environmental statement deposited with a new private or hybrid Bill authorising the carrying out of works will, in accordance with Standing Order 27A (Private Business), generally be expected to contain all the information set out in schedule 3 to the Town and Country Planning (Assessment of Environmental Effects) Regulations 1988. This includes the likely effects of the proposed works on the environment by reference to their possible impacts on water. Promoters are advised when preparing their environmental statement to consult those bodies with relevant information in their possession including, where appropriate, the National Rivers Authority.