HC Deb 25 February 1993 vol 219 cc713-4W
Mr. Kynoch

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what plans he has to establish a Scottish environment protection agency; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Lang

I announced in September 1991 that I had decided to set up a Scottish environment protection agency. We issued a public consultation document "Improving Scotland's Environment: The Way Forward" in January 1992, to which we have recieved more than 160 responses.

Under the proposals, the agency would assume the pollution control responsibilities of the three main regulatory bodies, the river purification authorities, the district and islands councils, in respect of waste management and local air pollution, and HM industrial pollution inspectorate. I was encouraged by the number and range of responses to the consultation exercise, several of which contained constructive suggestions. Generally, there is a recognition that the Government are determined to secure the most effective arrangements for protecting Scotland's environment from pollution. I have, therefore, decided that the major proposals in the consultation paper should not be amended.

Nevertheless, misgivings were expressed about the advisory committee structure which had been put forward originally. Having reconsidered these proposals, I believe we can secure scope for the delegation of responsibility within the agency to regional staff without prejudicing its overall control, and for ensuring a worthwhile role for the regional committees. I intend to commission further work on these aspects before legislation is introduced.

I have also decided in the light of responses made to me that it is logical to use this opportunity to give the agency enhanced powers to control water abstraction where such powers have been shown to be necessary, and I intend to issue a consultation paper on this subject shortly. Although I am satisfied that there is no widespread need for such powers, it seems sensible to give the agency the ability to apply controls in areas where problems can be identified.

We are proceeding with work on drafting the necessary legislation to create the agency and define its responsibilities. The Government intend to establish the new body as soon as possible, and legislation will therefore be introduced at the earliest opportunity.