§ Mrs. Helen JacksonTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment (1) what action he will take in response to the House of Lords European Communities Select Committee fourth report, HL31 of Session 1995–96, with regard to lead in drinking water; [18495]
(2) what action he plans in response to the conclusions of the House of Lords European Communities Select Committee fourth report, HL31 of Session 1995–96, in respect of the dosing of drinking water with chemicals; [18499]
(3) what assessment he has made of the conclusion of the House of Lords European Communities Select Committee fourth report, HL31 of Session 1995–96, in 7W respect of the urgency with which the problems of removing lead from drinking water have been approached; [18497]
(4) if he will implement a national strategy for the replacement of all domestic lead piping within a 15-year period. [18496]
§ Mr. ClappisonMy right hon. Friend is considering the report from the House of Lords Select Committee on the European Communities about Commission proposals for a revised drinking water directive, and will respond to it, including the recommendation for a national strategy, in due course.
§ Mrs. JacksonTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what measures he plans to remove lead from drinking water. [18498]
§ Mr. ClappisonWater companies have installed treatment to reduce lead levels at consumers' taps. In addition they have programmes for replacing lead communication pipes. Lead levels in drinking water supplies are now lower than they have ever been.