§ Mr. LordTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what assessment he has made of Anglian Water's efforts to bring drinking water in Suffolk within the EU standard for nitrate levels; if he will reconsider the imposition of nitrate-vulnerable zones; and if he will make a statement. [22084]
§ Mr. ClappisonMy right hon. Friend is satisfied that Anglian Water Services Ltd. has taken appropriate steps to ensure that drinking water supplies in Suffolk comply with the standard for nitrate in the EC drinking water directive. I announced on 22 March the Government's decision to designate 68 nitrate vulnerable zones in England and Wales. We have carefully targeted the designations in those parts of surface water catchments or aquifers where there is a danger of nitrate levels continuing to rise. Designation of the zones followed extensive consultation and advice from an independent review panel.