§ Mr. BowdenTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what guidance is issued to water companies as to the exact maximum level of concentration of cyptosporidium oocyst permitted in the public water supply.
§ Mr. YeoAs explained in my answer pursuant to the hon. Member's question of 6 JulyOfficial Report, column 79, the Water Supply (Water Quality) Regulations 1989 require that for water supplies to be wholesome they must not contain any organism at a concentration which is detrimental to public health. With those requirements in mind, water companies have been advised to maintain a close liaison with local authorities, and with health authorities which will provide advice taking into account local circumstances.